Science Terms Made Simple for Kids

Kids of all ages can explore science concepts using scientific terms. Learn the general science terms you need to know to conduct experiments and investigate how the world works like a real scientist.

Basic Scientific Method Vocabulary List

The scientific method is a process kids commonly learn to help encourage experimentation. Whether you use the classic scientific method or a newer variation, these are the words you’ll need to know.

• analyze - to look at the parts of a thing and find out what each part is made of or how it works
• data - a bunch of facts or things you know
• dependent variable - a thing you measure that changes when other things affect it
• empirical evidence - what you’ve learned using your senses
• evidence - a thing or group of things that helps you find an answer
• hypothesis - what you think will happen based on what you know
• independent variable - a thing you measure that isn’t changed by other things
• investigation - a careful search for answers
• measure - to find out the size of something
• natural - something made by nature, without being touched by people or machines
• observation - seeing something and making notes about it
• prediction - a guess about what you think will happen
• qualitative - what you know about things without measuring them or using numbers
• quantitative - measurements, or numbers, you know about things
• record - to write down what you know or learned
• scientific question - something you ask that can be tested with science
• variable - thing you are trying to measure in an experiment

General Science Tools Vocabulary List

Scientists of all ages use special tools to help them explore different science questions and solutions. These are the tools you’re most likely to use as a kid.

• beaker - a container like a cup that is used for measuring and pouring liquids
• burette - a special glass tube with a knob on one end you can use to open or close the tube
• diagram - a drawing that shows how parts fit together or how something works
• diorama - a mini model that shows how a place looks
• graph - a drawing that shows your data
• laboratory - a special room or building where you do experiments
• microscope - a tool that makes tiny things look bigger
• model - a mini copy of something
• pipette - a small tube that can suck up small amounts of liquids
• theory - an idea or group of ideas that explains something