Scientific Models
What is a representation used to explain, describe, or predict something in science?
Scientific Model
What does a scientific theory primarily do?
Explains how or why something happens
Which type of claim is more scientific: one supported by measurable evidence or one supported by a celebrity testimonial?
One supported by measurable evidence
What do we call information, observations, or data used to support a scientific explanation?
Evidence
What is a positive result or advantage of a decision called?
Benefit
What type of model imitates how a real system or process works?
Simulation
What does a scientific law primarily do?
Describes a pattern or relationship in nature
Name one characteristic of science.
Testable, measurable, evidence-based, repeatable, open to revision
What is revision in science?
Changing or improving a scientific explanation when new evidence becomes available
What is the possibility of a harmful or unwanted outcome called?
Risk
What do we call something that restricts how accurately a model represents reality?
Limitation
True or False: A scientific theory eventually becomes a scientific law.
False
What is one warning sign of pseudoscience?
Relies mostly on testimonials, lacks testable evidence, cannot be repeated, ignores conflicting evidence, makes strong claims without strong evidence
If new evidence disagrees with only one part of a theory, what should scientists do?
Evaluate the new evidence and revise the necessary part of the theory
What is an informed decision?
A choice made after considering evidence, benefits, risks, and other relevant information
A student drops a marble into flour to model a meteor impact. What real-world phenomenon is being represented?
An impact crater / meteor or asteroid impact
What is a scientific theory?
A well-supported explanation based on a large body of scientific evidence
A company says, “This bracelet increases energy because hundreds of customers say it works.” Is this stronger evidence of science or pseudoscience?
Pseudoscience
Why is revising a scientific explanation considered a strength of science?
Because science responds to new evidence and improves explanations as better information becomes available.
A school is deciding whether to install water refill stations. Name one type of information that would help make an informed decision.
Cost, plastic waste data, maintenance cost, student use, long-term savings, environmental impact
Why can a scientific model still be useful even if it is not perfect?
Because it can still help scientists represent, explain, or predict parts of a real system even though it simplifies reality.
Why is it incorrect to say that a scientific law is “stronger” than a theory?
Because theories and laws serve different purposes; theories explain and laws describe.
Why is a testimonial weaker than evidence from a controlled scientific investigation?
A testimonial is based on personal experience and does not control variables or provide repeatable, measurable evidence.
Put these in the correct order:
Revision — Explanation — Evidence — New Evidence — Evaluation
Evidence → Explanation → New Evidence → Evaluation → Revision
Why doesn’t science automatically make a decision for people?
Science provides evidence, but decisions may also involve costs, risks, benefits, practicality, values, and other factors.