Is Developing Scientific Thinking All About Learning to Control Variables? Deanna Kuhn and David Dean, Jr.This research study explores how scientific reasoning develops in students by focusing on question formulation rather than just the traditional control of variables. The authors demonstrate that encouraging sixth graders to investigate only one factor at a time significantly improves their ability to design experiments and draw valid inferences. This minimal intervention proved more effective than simple practice, suggesting that metastrategic understanding, that is, knowing why a strategy is useful is the key to independent inquiry. By shifting the instructional focus to the initial phase of questioning, educators can help students naturally adopt more complex analytical skills. Ultimately, the source argues that authentic science education should move beyond rote procedures to foster a deeper conceptual grasp of the goals of investigation.