Understanding Theories and Explanations in Science and Engineering

Paul Andersen discusses the importance of theories in science and engineering, explaining how they are developed, tested, and refined over time. He provides examples like the Big Bang Theory and natural selection, contrasting them with outdated ideas like the miasma theory. Andersen also clarifies the difference between hypotheses and theories, and describes the engineering design cycle. He emphasizes the importance of teaching students to construct explanations and design solutions, using practical examples from elementary to high school education.

What is the primary role of theories in science?

• To replace laws of nature

• To construct explanations for phenomena

• To entertain scientists

• To make random guesses

What happens if new evidence cannot modify an existing theory?

• The theory is discarded immediately

• A scientific revolution may occur

• The theory is considered perfect

• The evidence is ignored

Who first proposed the Big Bang Theory?

• Edwin Hubble

• George Lemaitre

• Isaac Newton

• Albert Einstein

How does the theory of natural selection explain the evolution of species?

• Species evolve by random chance

• Species do not evolve

• Species evolve through natural selection of traits

• Species evolve by willpower

What was the miasma theory replaced by?

• The Big Bang Theory

• The Theory of Evolution

• The Theory of Relativity

• The Germ Theory

What is the main difference between a hypothesis and a theory?

• A hypothesis is a type of theory

• A hypothesis is a proven fact

• A hypothesis is a plausible explanation for observations

• A hypothesis is a wild guess

In the context of engineering, what is the cycle of design?

• A technique to ignore human needs

• A way to avoid solving problems

• A method to create and evaluate solutions

• A process of making random guesses

What is the purpose of engaging students in constructing explanations from an early age?

• To make them memorize facts

• To develop their ability to construct explanations

• To prepare them for scientific revolutions

• To improve their guessing skills

What is a common misconception about boiling water bubbles?

• They are made of helium

• They are made of nitrogen

• They are made of carbon dioxide

• They are made of hydrogen and oxygen gas

What is an example of a project that can help students design solutions?

• Building bridges

• Drawing diagrams

• Memorizing the periodic table

• Writing essays