Scientific Models

_________________ is something that scientists use to represent an idea or explanation.

• A question

• A claim

• A model

• A theory

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-4

Which of these is not a model?

• a hot wheels/match box car

• a Princess Leia action figure

• an eighteen-wheeler (semi-truck)

• a diagram of the inner workings of a clock

Models can be helpful in scientific investigations because

• It may not be possible to work safely with the real thing.

• They can be smaller and easier to study than the real thing.

• They can be larger and easier to examine than the real thing.

• all of these answers are correct.

A tennis ball could be used to represent the sun because it's round and yellow.

Which of the following could also be used to model the sun because they share similar characteristics?

• a light bulb

• an empty cup

• an eraser

• a Kleenex box

Which of the statements are INCORRECT about models.

• Models must be exactly like what is being modeled.

• Models communicate information.

• Models can be modified and improved.

• Models can be drawings with labels.

Models are used to better explain and understand a complex thing.

• True

• False

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-4

Two models of the same phenomenon can be very different because they may be explaining two different ideas about the same object or system.

• True

• False

More than one model of the phenomenon can be equally valid and useful, as long they both can explain the phenomenon and be used to make predictions about how the system works.

• True

• False

All models have _______________. Even good models can often be made better.

• replicas

• computer simulations

• limitations

• drawings

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1

NGSS.MS-ETS1-4

Once a scientific model is made, scientists ...

• never change it. Scientists never change their minds, and always stick with their first ideas about a phenomenon.

• can always modify and improve it. Models should be updated to reflect the most current understanding of the phenomenon.

• don't do any more research on that topic. Models are only made once scientists understand everything about a phenomenon.

• become super famous. It is very difficult to make a model. Only the most advanced scientists are allowed to create models of phenomena.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-4