Nature of Science Review

Kaylee reads an article that states that the frequency of chirping by crickets is related to the temperature of

their environment. She wants to conduct an experiment to see if this is true. Kaylee states this hypothesis:

Crickets chirp more frequently when the temperature of their environment increases. What is the test

variable (independent variable) and outcome variable (dependent variable) in Kaylee’s experiment?

• a.test variable (independent variable): number of crickets; outcome variable (dependent variable): frequency of chirping

• b. test variable (independent variable): temperature of environment; outcome variable (dependent variable): frequency of chirping

• c. test variable (independent variable): number of crickets; outcome variable (dependent variable): temperature of environment

• d. test variable (independent variable): frequency of chirping; outcome variable (dependent variable): temperature of environment

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

NGSS.MS-ETS1-2

The independent variable is the ONE thing you _____.

• change on purpose
• control or keep constant
• measure

The variable that is being measured or observed is called the _______________. Hint: this is the variable that is the result or effect

• independent variable

• dependent variable

• control variable

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

What is being changed in this experiment?

• ramp height
• the speed that the ball rolls
• type of ball

What is being kept constant?

• ramp height
• speed of the ball rolling
• type of ball

Newton’s third law of motion states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. How does this law differ from a theory?

• A theory explains a set of well tested observations; a law describes a pattern in nature.
• Laws can be changed with the addition of new evidence but theories cannot.
• A law explains a pattern in nature in more detail than a theory. 
• Theories are based on more evidence than laws.

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-1

Sarah is participating in a walkathon to raise money for local literacy programs. The amount of money Sarah will raise depends on the distance she walks.
m = the amount of money Sarah will raise
d = the distance Sarah walks
Which of the variables is dependent?

• m
• d

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS3-1

Determine which of the following makes a theory different from a law.

• Laws change, theories stay the same
• Theories try to explain. Laws just say what happens.
• Laws give lots of details. Theories give one detail
• Laws and theories aren't different at all.

Which of the following is NOT a claim?

• California is the best state in the USA.
• Twinkies taste better than other snack cakes because of their texture, their creamy filling, and their golden appearance.
• The school year began on August 18 and will end on June 4
• Christmas is the best holiday of the year.

According to the American Health Association, peanut butter is a great source of protein.

• Claim
• Evidence