The independent variable in the given experiment in testing the hypothesis is the pixie sticks as it could stand independently, without having to rely to another variable. The dependent variable is determining the reading speed of which this will be dependent on the independent variable in showing its effect or result.
The independent variable of an experiment is that variable that does not depend on or is influenced by another variable. The independent variable exists to influence and it is through it that the dependent variable shows a variation in size, speed, quality, among other characteristics.
Nicole believes that children's reading speed is influenced by their habit of eating pixie sticks. As stated above, the independent variable is one that influences another variable, so the independent variable in Nicole's experiment is "eating pixie sticks".
