In order to carry out a science project into the effect of chewing gum on math scores there are three stages that need to be completed:
1) Design the experiment and choose a variable (For example flavor of gum)
2) Find suitable and representative subjects.
3) Carry out the experiment.
4) Analyze data.
The most obvious experiment to carry out is where the subjects are divided into groups of even numbers. Both groups are given the same math test and the same amount of time to complete the test. However, one group is given gum to chew while carrying out the test and the other group is not given any gum. Math results between the groups are compared.
In this project the effect of chewing gum of different flavors is investigated. The subjects are divided into two or more groups, depending on how many chewing gum flavors are available. Each group is given a different flavor of gum to chew while carrying out the same math test. Math results are compared among the groups.
In this project students are divided into two groups. One group is given gum to chew while carrying out the math test; the others are given hard mints. This study separates the influence of chewing from general oral activity, and identifies if it is the chewing or general flavor that is important for success in exams.