Hypothesis, Theory, and Law

In 1859, Charles Darwin described a model of how living things change over time. He described this model and the evidence that supported it in a book called On The Origin of Species. Which scientific term is used to describe a testable model that seeks to explain natural phenomena?

• data

• hypothesis

• theory

• observation

Scientists form _________ hypothesis to answer questions.

• accurate

• short

• mathematical

• testable

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

Scientists ___________ experiments to make sure the results are meaningful.

• perform

• repeat

• conclude

• communicate

Tags

NGSS.HS-PS1-3

Before a scientific theory is accepted and supported, it has

• been tested by only one scientist.

• been published in scientific journals.

• been tested many times by different scientists.

• been approved by the International Committee of Scientists.

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS2-7

Evolution is one example of a theory. From what you know about the scientific method, what can you conclude about this biological theory?

• a. It's been tested many times. 
• b. Scientists don't need to test it anymore
• c. No one is allowed to test whether it's true or not. 
• d. There is very little evidence to support it. 

While speaking to a colleague, a scientist makes the following statement: "I propose that Bald Eagle eggs in northern Maine will have thinner shells than those from birds in southern Alaska due to increased levels of pesticides in the water." This statement is a

• theory
• law
• conclusion
• hypothesis

Scientific theories are based on

• general assumptions of how systems work.
• mathematical principles that can be proven true.
• large amounts of data collected over time.
• observations from within only one scientific discipline.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

Scientific theories do not change once they have been written down.

• True
• False

Science can prove anything, solve any problem, or answer any question.

• True

• False

In biology, evolution is only a theory and as a result, it requires more evidence in order for it to reach “law” status.

• True

• False