Experiments vs investigations SSA Review

What is scientific investigation?

• a graph created based on data
  

• a question posed to a question
  

• the results to a formal procedure
  

• a journey to find answers to a question
  

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

NGSS.MS-PS3-4

How is a scientific experiment different from other types of investigations?

• Investigations are only done by scientists.
  

• Investigations require variables to test a hypothesis.
  

• Scientific experiments are only done using observations.
  

• A scientific experiment uses variables and establishes a cause-effect relationship.
  

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-2

NGSS.MS-PS2-2

Matthew wants to study and research the different fossils found in the many layers of rock at the Grand Canyon in Arizona. Which method would allow Matthew to successfully conduct this?

• interview
  

• cast study
  

• field study
  

• controlled experimentation
  

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-3

NGSS.MS-LS4-1

What would be the main advantage of using a field study as opposed to a experiment carried out in a lab?

• Field studies are much easier to perform.
  

• The field study will always provide more accurate results than the lab experiment.
  

• The field study takes place in the natural setting where the lab experiment is in a controlled environment.
  

• The field study can performed by anyone while the lab experiment must be performed by a qualified scientist.
  

What distinguishes an experiment from other types of scientific investigations?

• An experiment requires observations only.

• An experiment must occur in a laboratory.

• An experiment involves manipulating variables to test a hypothesis.

• An experiment is a theoretical investigation without practical activities.

Answer explanation

An experiment involves manipulating variables to test a hypothesis, distinguishing it from other types of scientific investigations.

Tags

DOK Level 2: Skill/Concept

Diana wanted to know if native Florida pollinators like bumble bees were more attracted to native Florida plants or nonnative, invasive plants. She went for walks down a variety of nature trails several times over the spring months. Each time Diana took a walk, she watched the bumble bees and other pollinators and documented whether they approached the native Florida plants or the nonnative, invasive plants. At the end of two months, she analyzed her data and reported her findings to several local environmental agencies. What type of scientific investigation did Diana complete?

• observational study

• controlled experiment

• design Investigation

• literature research/review

Carlos reviewed the data on water use in the United States. Carlos wanted to help conserve water, so he and his father fixed all the leaks in the house and garage. Carlos hypothesized that if they fixed their leaks, they would not use as much water as before. What MUST Carlos do to make this a real experiment?

• Determine his manipulated variable.
  

• Draw a conclusion from the data in the bar graph.
  

• Collect and analyze data before and after the leaks are fixed.
  

• Make a prediction about the amount of water used before fixing the leaks.
  

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

Sally was disappointed with the lunch being served at school. She decided to take a student survey about the kinds of food students liked to eat. Is Sally conducting a scientific experiment in this case?

• Yes, the is conducting research.
  

• No, she must compile her data in some way.
  

• No, a survey is not an experiment.
  

• Yes, Sally is collecting opinions that are a form of qualitative data.