Constructing Explanations with Evidence

Mr. Anderson's mini lesson focuses on constructing explanations using evidence. He introduces the concept of explanations as answers to questions about phenomena, emphasizing the importance of observations and logical reasoning. The lesson includes practical examples with a candy jar and baseballs to demonstrate how to form explanations based on evidence and reasoning. Students are encouraged to practice these skills with various phenomena.

What is the first step in constructing an explanation with evidence?

• Drawing conclusions

• Collecting data

• Identifying the phenomena

• Forming a hypothesis

In the candy jar example, what was the initial question posed?

• How many Skittles are in the jar?

• Why are Skittles colorful?

• What happened to the candy jar?

• Why are there only three colors of Skittles?

What observation was made about the Skittles in the candy jar?

• There were five colors of Skittles.

• The Skittles were missing.

• The Skittles were all red.

• There were three colors of Skittles.

What is the purpose of reasoning in constructing explanations?

• To collect evidence

• To make observations

• To ask questions

• To connect observations to explanations

What reasoning was used to explain the absence of red and yellow Skittles?

• They were never in the jar.

• They were removed by someone.

• They were hidden under other Skittles.

• They were eaten by animals.

In the baseball example, what was the main question?

• Why are the baseballs different colors?

• How many baseballs are there?

• Why are the baseballs round?

• What are the baseballs made of?

What observation was made about baseball A?

• It has a broken logo.

• It is tan and has smudges.

• It is white and has no scratches.

• It is brown and has scratches.

What conclusion was drawn about baseballs B and C?

• They have been played with.

• They are from different manufacturers.

• They are brand new.

• They are made of different materials.

What is a key characteristic of a new baseball according to the video?

• It is brown and scratched.

• It is white and unmarked.

• It has a broken logo.

• It is tan and smudged.

What are students encouraged to do after learning about constructing explanations?

• Write a report

• Practice with other examples

• Read a book

• Create a video