7 N 3 1

SC.7.N.3.1

Which best explains the difference between a scientific theory and a scientific law?

a. Biologists develop theories; geologists develop laws.

b. A law is based on evidence; a theory is based on ideas.

c. A theory can become a law; a law cannot become a theory.

d. A theory explains a set of observations; a law describes a pattern in nature.

• a

• b

• c

• d

SC.7.N.3.1

Over time, scientists’ ideas about the structure of atoms have changed. Historic and current models of the atom are shown below. What must happen for the current model to continue to be accepted?

a. Experimental evidence will need to continue to provide evidence for the current model.

b. Scientific opinion will need to continue to support the current model of the atom.

c. Scientists will need to build better microscopes so they can examine atoms more closely.

d. Experimental evidence will need to provide evidence that the other models are not accurate.

• a

• b

• c

• d

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS1-1

SC.7.N.3.1

Newton’s third law of motion states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. How does this law differ from a theory?

a. A theory explains a set of observations; a law describes a pattern in nature.

b. Laws can be changed with the addition of new evidence but theories cannot.

c. A law explains a pattern in nature in more detail than a theory.

d. Theories are based on more evidence than laws.

• a

• b

• c

• d

SC.7.N.3.2

Scientists use many types of models. Which model below would be most beneficial for predicting a blizzard’s track?

a. a map

b. a graph

c. a 3-D model

d. a computer simulation

• a

• b

• c

• d

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-5

NGSS.MS-ESS2-6

NGSS.MS-ESS3-2

SC.7.N.3.2

A model can represent an object, system, or process. Why do all models have limitations?

a. because all models are two-dimensional

b. because a model includes every factor that affects it

c. because a model is smaller than the thing it represents

d. because a model is never exactly the same as the thing it represents

• a

• b

• c

• d

SC.7.N.3.2

Two types of models that can be used to show details of the structures of cells are shown. Which of the following describes a limitation of the drawing but NOT the clay model?

a. It does not represent the main parts of a cell.

b. It does not contain the correct number of nuclei.

c. It cannot represent a living cell, since a true cell is three-dimensional.

d. It cannot represent a living cell, since the cytoplasm should be in constant motion.

• a

• b

• c

• d

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-1

NGSS.MS-LS1-2

SC.6.N.3.1

Which phrase defines a scientific theory?

a. an untested idea

b. an educated guess

c. an accepted description

d. a well-supported explanation

• a

• b

• c

• d

SC.6.N.3.1

In which statement does the word theory mean scientific theory?

a. In theory, the experiment will work as planned.

b. She has a theory about why the storm arrived later than predicted.

c. The atomic theory explains that material objects are made up of atoms.

d. The doctor’s prescription for curing a cold is based on his best theory or guess.

• a

• b

• c

• d