Year 8 Science Inquiry Quiz 2 Representing Data

What is the focus of constructing graphs?

• Presenting and analyzing data

• Learning about animal habitats

• Studying the solar system

• Understanding human anatomy

Answer explanation

The focus of constructing graphs is primarily on presenting and analyzing data. Graphs visually represent information, making it easier to identify trends, patterns, and insights from the data.

What should you consider when doing background information research?

• The speed of data collection

• The quality and reliability of sources

• The number of experiments

• The type of graphs used

Answer explanation

When conducting background research, it's crucial to consider the quality and reliability of sources. Trustworthy sources ensure accurate information, which is essential for informed decision-making.

When you discuss the reliability and validity of the data and then suggest improvement and extemnsions you are

• Observing and asking questions

• Evaluating the data

• Making a conclusion

• Communicating the results

Answer explanation

Evaluating the data involves discussing its reliability and validity, as well as suggesting improvements and extensions. This process assesses the quality and applicability of the data.

What should be included in the method to test a hypothesis?

• A list of questions

• A risk assessment

• A conclusion

• A hypothesis

Answer explanation

A risk assessment is crucial in testing a hypothesis as it identifies potential issues and evaluates the safety and feasibility of the method. The other options do not directly contribute to the testing process.

What is the purpose of analyzing data in the scientific method?

• To create a hypothesis

• To reveal relationships, trends, and patterns

• To gather more data

• To communicate results

Answer explanation

Analyzing data in the scientific method is crucial for revealing relationships, trends, and patterns. This understanding helps scientists draw conclusions and make informed decisions based on the evidence collected.

What type of data is descriptive or categorical?

• Quantitative data

• Qualitative data

• Continuous data

• Discrete data

Answer explanation

Qualitative data is descriptive and categorical, focusing on characteristics and qualities rather than numerical values. In contrast, quantitative data involves numbers and measurements.

Which type of data considers only one variable?

• Bivariate data

• Multivariate data

• Univariate data

• Qualitative data

Answer explanation

Univariate data focuses on a single variable, making it distinct from bivariate and multivariate data, which involve two or more variables respectively. Therefore, the correct answer is univariate data.

What is the median in measures of central tendency?

• The sum of all data values divided by the number of data values

• The most frequently occurring value

• The middle value when values are arranged in order

• The range of data values

Answer explanation

The median is defined as the middle value in a data set when the values are arranged in order. This distinguishes it from the mean (average) and mode (most frequent value), making it the correct choice.

What is the mode in measures of central tendency?

• The sum of all data values divided by the number of data values

• The middle value when values are arranged in order

• The most frequently occurring value

• The range of data values

Answer explanation

The mode is defined as the most frequently occurring value in a data set. Unlike the mean (average) or median (middle value), the mode identifies the value that appears most often.

Which of the following is an example of ordinal data?

• Nationality

• Test grade

• Distance

• Number of cats

Answer explanation

Test grades are an example of ordinal data because they represent a ranked order (e.g., A, B, C) where the values have a meaningful sequence, unlike nationality, distance, or number of cats, which are nominal or quantitative.