Evidence-Based Reasoning and Explanations

Mr. Anderson's mini-lesson focuses on constructing explanations using evidence-based reasoning. The video begins with an introduction to the concept, emphasizing the importance of solving scientific puzzles by identifying phenomena and their causes. The lesson includes practical examples, such as analyzing the instability of a red block compared to a green block and investigating a worn-out calculator. Throughout, Mr. Anderson demonstrates how to evaluate evidence, formulate explanations, and connect reasoning to evidence. The video concludes with suggestions for further practice using additional examples.

What is the primary goal of evidence-based reasoning in science?

• To ignore evidence and focus on theories

• To make assumptions based on intuition

• To construct explanations based on evidence

• To solve puzzles using personal opinions

What phenomenon is being investigated with the red and green blocks?

• Why the blocks are different sizes

• Why both blocks are the same color

• Why the red block is unstable

• Why the green block is heavier

Which piece of evidence was considered helpful in explaining the red block's instability?

• The color of the blocks

• The blocks' external dimensions

• The blocks' magnetic attachment points

• The brand of the blocks

What is the proposed explanation for the red block's instability?

• The red block has a metal weight in its arm

• The red block is made of lighter material

• The red block is larger than the green block

• The red block is painted differently

What is the role of reasoning in evidence-based explanations?

• To restate the evidence

• To create new evidence

• To connect the explanation with the evidence

• To ignore the evidence

What phenomenon is being investigated with the worn calculator?

• Why the calculator is worn out

• Why the calculator is a different color

• Why the calculator is expensive

• Why the calculator is new

Which piece of evidence was considered important in explaining the calculator's wear?

• The calculator's brand

• The calculator's size

• The 99 cent store flyer

• The calculator's color

What is the proposed explanation for the worn calculator?

• The calculator was used for educational purposes

• The calculator was used for scientific experiments

• The calculator was used for artistic projects

• The calculator was used for checkout at a 99 cent store

Why is the 9 button on the calculator particularly worn out?

• It was used for artistic projects

• It was used for educational purposes

• It was used frequently in checkout processes

• It was used for scientific calculations

What is the first step in evidence-based reasoning?

• Ignoring the evidence

• Looking through the evidence

• Making an explanation

• Creating new evidence