Chapter 1.1 Quiz

Science primarily involves which of the following?

• Constructing beliefs based on gut feelings

• Developing testable explanations and predictions using evidence

• Making guesses about aliens and time travel

• Exploring philosophical concepts over coffee

Answer explanation

Science is about developing testable explanations and predictions using evidence. This methodical approach distinguishes it from mere beliefs, guesses, or philosophical discussions.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-5

In scientific methodology, how are observations made?

• By staring at the sky and hoping for answers

• By using your senses to notice and describe events or processes in an orderly way

• By making up data to fit your hypothesis

• Through intense daydreaming

Answer explanation

In scientific methodology, observations are made by noticing and describing events or processes in an orderly way. This systematic approach allows for accurate data collection and analysis, unlike the other options which are unscientific.

How do scientists make inferences?

• By using logical interpretation based on prior knowledge

• By consulting a magic 8-ball

• By asking their pets for advice

• By guessing and hoping for the best

Answer explanation

Scientists make inferences by using logical interpretation based on prior knowledge, allowing them to draw conclusions from existing data and observations, rather than relying on random guesses or unscientific methods.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

A hypothesis is best described as which of the following?

• An educated guess that can be tested through experimentation

• A final answer that never changes

• A wild theory that involves space dinosaurs

• A hunch that doesn’t require evidence

Answer explanation

A hypothesis is an educated guess that can be tested through experimentation, making it a foundational element of the scientific method. The other options do not accurately describe what a hypothesis is.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

In a controlled experiment, why is only one variable changed?

• To make things as confusing as possible

• To isolate the effect of the independent variable on the outcome

• Because changing everything at once is too much like juggling flaming swords

• To guarantee a Nobel Prize

Answer explanation

In a controlled experiment, only one variable is changed to isolate the effect of the independent variable on the outcome. This ensures that any observed changes can be directly attributed to that specific variable.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

Which variable is deliberately changed in an experiment?

• The one that feels like changing

• Control variable

• Independent variable

• The variable that’s best friends with the hypothesis

Answer explanation

The independent variable is the one that is deliberately changed in an experiment to observe its effect on the dependent variable. It is essential for testing hypotheses.

Which variable responds to changes in an experiment?

• Independent variable

• Dependent variable

Answer explanation

The dependent variable is the one that responds to changes made in the independent variable during an experiment. It is measured to assess the effect of the independent variable.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

How is a control group used in an experiment?

• It's exposed to the same conditions except for the independent variable

• It's kept in the dark—literally, in a dark room

• It controls all other variables like a boss

• It does nothing but provide moral support

Answer explanation

A control group is essential in experiments as it is exposed to the same conditions as the experimental group, except for the independent variable. This allows researchers to isolate the effects of the independent variable accurately.

Which type of data includes measurements or numbers?

• Numbers that scientists pull out of thin air

• Quantitative data

• Hypothetical data from a parallel universe

• Experimental data recorded on napkins

Answer explanation

Quantitative data includes measurements or numbers, making it the correct choice. The other options are nonsensical or irrelevant to the question.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-1

What kind of data involves descriptions and characteristics?

• Quantitative data

• Qualitative data

• Data that only Sherlock Holmes could analyze

• Superficial data for when you're too lazy to measure things

Answer explanation

Qualitative data involves descriptions and characteristics, focusing on qualities rather than quantities. In contrast, quantitative data deals with numerical values. Therefore, the correct answer is qualitative data.