Understanding Hypothesis, Theory, and Law

What is a hypothesis?

• A well-supported explanation of something in the natural world

• An explanation that can be tested by further investigation

• A statement that describes a natural phenomenon

• A mathematical equation

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following describes a scientific theory?

• It is a guess based on personal opinion.

• It is an explanation formed after using the scientific method.

• It is a statement that describes a natural phenomenon.

• It is a hypothesis that has not been tested.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following best describes a scientific law?

• An explanation that can be tested

• A well-supported explanation of some aspect of the natural world

• A statement that describes a pattern

  in nature

• A mathematical equation

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following is an example of a scientific law?

• The theory of evolution

• Newton's law of universal gravitation

• The hypothesis of continental drift

• The theory of relativity

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DOK Level 1: Recall

What is the main difference between a theory and a law in science?

• A theory is a guess, while a law is a fact.

• A theory explains why something happens, while a law

  describes how something happens.

• A theory is a mathematical equation, while a law is a statement.

• A theory is untested, while a law is tested.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a scientific theory?

• It is based on a large body of evidence.

• It can be changed

  or rejected based

  on new evidence.

• It is a guess that has not been tested.

• It explains a wide range of patterns

  in our world.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which of the following is an example of a hypothesis?

• Cells are the

  basic unit of life.

• If plants are given more sunlight, then they will grow taller.

• The Earth orbits

  the Sun.

• Energy cannot be created or destroyed.

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DOK Level 1: Recall

Which step of the scientific method uses an "If...Then..." statement to provide a possible answer to the question?

• Purpose

• Research

• Hypothesis

• Conclusion

If plants are exposed to sunlight, then they will grow taller.
What part of the scientific method is this an example of?

• Procedure
• Hypothesis
• Question
• Results

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

These can change when new evidence is presented

• theory

• law

Tags

NGSS.HS-ESS1-2

NGSS.HS-PS1-2