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Worksheets

Evaluating Resources

Total questions: 65

Worksheet time: 35mins

Name
Class
Date
1.

1. In analyzing a hypothesis on global warming, the average temperature of the earth is used over and over again. One group of scientists claims that global warming is occurring because the average temperature of the earth has increased 0.8 degrees Celsius in the last hundred years. Another group of scientists states that global warming is not happening, due to the fact that the earth’s temperature fluctuates only 0.8 degrees Celsius over the past hundred years. Which statement below best reflects how two groups of scientists can use the same data to justify two different conclusions?

a)

A. Data can be examined in context with other data points in order to draw valid conclusions.

b)

B. Data in science is rarely accurate and should not be used in a scientific argument.

c)

C. The data is false and needs to be corrected since it can’t prove either side of a scientific argument.

d)

D. Data is frequently used outside of context to benefit the conclusion scientists want to reach.

2.

1. Scientists performed an experiment addressing the development of the theory of evolution. During the experiment the scientific team found very unusual results. Which statement best reflects what the scientists should do next?

a)

A. Change variables in this experiment and repeat it until he gets the data he was expecting.

b)

B. Have other scientists replicate his experiment exactly and see if they get the same results.

c)

C. Assume the scientists did everything correctly and write up his results to get published in a scientific journal.

d)

D. The scientists made a mistake somewhere, but should alter the results to better match his original hypothesis.

3.

1. Janelle believes that the results Josh found while doing his experiment are incorrect and not accurate. Which of the following statements explains what Janelle can do to prove that Josh’s results are incorrect?

a)

A. Janelle can replicate Josh's experiment to see if she gets the same results.

b)

B. Janelle can do a different experiment and show that the results are different.

c)

C. Janelle can change variables in Josh's experiment to try to change the results.

d)

D. Janelle can research what should likely happen in the experiment from an online resource.

4.

1. Which of the following is the best indicator that an internet site is reliable?

a)

The author links to his or her favorite internet sites.

b)

The author of the site tells you the information is reliable.

c)

The author states in bold letters that the site was proofread by a librarian.

d)

D. The author of the site provides contact information and his or her qualifications.

5.

1. Read the passage "Cold Fusion" in the box below


Predict the reason the scientific community rejected the idea of cold fusion?

a)

A. Other scientists were tried to contact them and they would not answer.

b)

B. Cold fusion was a topic that was cited frequently among the scientific community.

c)

C. Scientists in the community were unable to replicate the experiment with the same methods and obtain the same results.

d)

D. The original scientists were unable to attend a science community meeting involving cold fusion to explain their evidence.

6.

1. Rachel is conducting a science experiment in which she examines the amount of methane released into the atmosphere from farming. She recently read an online article stating that scientists saw a decrease in methane when they substituted traditional grass for a dry seaweed product to use as food for cows. Rachel is not certain if the original online article can be trusted but she thinks it is a good basis for an experiment. What should be Rachel’s next step before she begins experimenting?

a)

A. Rachel should decide the independent variable for her experiment.

b)

B. Rachel should decide and create a hypothesis based on her research.

c)

C. Rachel should get the opinion of other scientists upon the validity of the experiment.

d)

D. Rachel should look for other published scientific journals or articles that provide information relating to this experiment.

7.

1. A group of students are researching the best methods for converting algal oils into bio-diesel. Which of the following would be the best reliable source of information to use in the investigation?

a)

A. step by step instructions from a blog on social media.

b)

B. a magazine found in the school library regarding the economic cost of bio-fuels.

c)

C. a university study surveying the known methods for converting algae to bio-fuel found through a Google search engine.

d)

D. a pamphlet distributed at a local gas station claiming that bio-fuels degrade cars more quickly therefore making it more expensive.

8.

1. Scientists are trying to design a new shape for a boat that holds more weight for its size. After testing their hypothesis 10 times they analyze their data and see the boat they tested held less weight than the average boat currently does. What might these scientists do differently after they analyze their results.

a)

A. Make boats with their test design.

b)

B. Publish a journal on their findings.

c)

C. Use the data they collected to make a new hypothesis.

d)

D. Contact other scientist willing to retest their hypothesis and compare data samples.

9.

1. Scientists are doing an experiment to see which brand of 30 SPF sunscreen works best. They applied the different brands of sunscreen to an object that measures the amount of UV rays (sunlight) that gets through the sunscreen. The scientists will use the data to compile a list of the best sunscreen brands. They also run a tests with no sunscreen. Why is it important that the scientist gather empirical data in order to make their decisions?

a)

A. Data allows scientific theories and laws to form.

b)

B. Data provides evidence to conclude their observations and hypothesis.

c)

C. Data allows the scientists to gain all credit for experiments taking place.

d)

D. Data ensures that scientists are following the scientific method in the proper order.

10.

1. Cholera is a bacteria that causes an infection of the intestine. A person can contract cholera by drinking water or eating food contaminated with the cholera bacterium.Scientists at the University of Central Florida (UCF) are studying a theory of the transmission of the bacteria Cholera. They have predicted the conditions needed in the water to avoid the transmission. Which of the following statements explains how the UCF scientists will be able to prove this theory true to the scientific community?

a)

A. The scientists will have to prove that most doctors believed cholera was an airborne illness.

b)

B. The scientists will determined that cholera didn’t affect the lungs, so it couldn’t be airborne.

c)

C. The scientists will write a paper on cholera and the transmission through contaminated food or water.

d)

D. The scientists will have to show data providing evidence for the 500 cases where cholera in water was not transmitted.

11.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Is it clear who is responsible for the contents of the page?

2.Is there a way of verifying the legitimacy of the organization, group, company or individual?

3.Is there any indication of the author's qualifications for writing on a particular topic?

4.Is the information from sources known to be reliable?

a)

Authority

b)

Accuracy

c)

Objectivity

d)

Currency

12.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Are the sources for factual information clearly listed so they can be verified in another source?

2.Is the information free of grammatical, spelling, and other typographical errors?

a)

Authority

b)

Accuracy

c)

Objectivity

d)

Coverage

13.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Does the content appear to contain any evidence of bias?

2.Is there a link to a page describing the goals or purpose of the sponsoring organization or company?

3.If there is any advertising on the page, is it clearly differentiated from the informational content?

a)

Authority

b)

Accuracy

c)

Objectivity

d)

Currency

14.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

Are there dates on the page to indicate when the page was written, when the page was first placed on the Web, or when the page was last revised?

a)

coverage

b)

currency

c)

accuracy

d)

Authority

15.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Does the site look well organized?

2.Do the links work?

3.Does the site appear well maintained?

a)

Authority

b)

Appearance

c)

Currency

d)

Accuracy

16.

Which words are associated with credibility?

a)

trustworthiness

b)

believing

c)

reliability

d)

all of the above

17.

1. Which of the following is the best indicator that an internet site is reliable?

a)

The author links to his or her favorite internet sites.

b)

The author of the site tells you the information is reliable.

c)

The author states in bold letters that the site was proofread by a librarian.

d)

D. The author of the site provides contact information and his or her qualifications.

18.

1. Rachel is conducting a science experiment in which she examines the amount of methane released into the atmosphere from farming. She recently read an online article stating that scientists saw a decrease in methane when they substituted traditional grass for a dry seaweed product to use as food for cows. Rachel is not certain if the original online article can be trusted but she thinks it is a good basis for an experiment. What should be Rachel’s next step before she begins experimenting?

a)

A. Rachel should decide the independent variable for her experiment.

b)

B. Rachel should decide and create a hypothesis based on her research.

c)

C. Rachel should get the opinion of other scientists upon the validity of the experiment.

d)

D. Rachel should look for other published scientific journals or articles that provide information relating to this experiment.

19.

1. A group of students are researching the best methods for converting algal oils into bio-diesel. Which of the following would be the best reliable source of information to use in the investigation?

a)

A. step by step instructions from a blog on social media.

b)

B. a magazine found in the school library regarding the economic cost of bio-fuels.

c)

C. a university study surveying the known methods for converting algae to bio-fuel found through a Google search engine.

d)

D. a pamphlet distributed at a local gas station claiming that bio-fuels degrade cars more quickly therefore making it more expensive.

20.

1. Scientists are doing an experiment to see which brand of 30 SPF sunscreen works best. They applied the different brands of sunscreen to an object that measures the amount of UV rays (sunlight) that gets through the sunscreen. The scientists will use the data to compile a list of the best sunscreen brands. They also run a tests with no sunscreen. Why is it important that the scientist gather empirical data in order to make their decisions?

a)

A. Data allows scientific theories and laws to form.

b)

B. Data provides evidence to conclude their observations and hypothesis.

c)

C. Data allows the scientists to gain all credit for experiments taking place.

d)

D. Data ensures that scientists are following the scientific method in the proper order.

21.

1. Scientists are trying to design a new shape for a boat that holds more weight for its size. After testing their hypothesis 10 times they analyze their data and see the boat they tested held less weight than the average boat currently does. What might these scientists do differently after they analyze their results.

a)

A. Make boats with their test design.

b)

B. Publish a journal on their findings.

c)

C. Use the data they collected to make a new hypothesis.

d)

D. Contact other scientist willing to retest their hypothesis and compare data samples.

22.

1. Cholera is a bacteria that causes an infection of the intestine. A person can contract cholera by drinking water or eating food contaminated with the cholera bacterium.Scientists at the University of Central Florida (UCF) are studying a theory of the transmission of the bacteria Cholera. They have predicted the conditions needed in the water to avoid the transmission. Which of the following statements explains how the UCF scientists will be able to prove this theory true to the scientific community?

a)

A. The scientists will have to prove that most doctors believed cholera was an airborne illness.

b)

B. The scientists will determined that cholera didn’t affect the lungs, so it couldn’t be airborne.

c)

C. The scientists will write a paper on cholera and the transmission through contaminated food or water.

d)

D. The scientists will have to show data providing evidence for the 500 cases where cholera in water was not transmitted.

23.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Is it clear who is responsible for the contents of the page?

2.Is there a way of verifying the legitimacy of the organization, group, company or individual?

3.Is there any indication of the author's qualifications for writing on a particular topic?

4.Is the information from sources known to be reliable?

a)

Authority

b)

Accuracy

c)

Objectivity

d)

Currency

24.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Are the sources for factual information clearly listed so they can be verified in another source?

2.Is the information free of grammatical, spelling, and other typographical errors?

a)

Authority

b)

Accuracy

c)

Objectivity

d)

Coverage

25.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Does the content appear to contain any evidence of bias?

2.Is there a link to a page describing the goals or purpose of the sponsoring organization or company?

3.If there is any advertising on the page, is it clearly differentiated from the informational content?

a)

Authority

b)

Accuracy

c)

Objectivity

d)

Currency

26.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

Are there dates on the page to indicate when the page was written, when the page was first placed on the Web, or when the page was last revised?

a)

coverage

b)

currency

c)

accuracy

d)

Authority

27.

There are six criteria in evaluating web resources. One of these has the following questions. Which criterion is this talking about?

1.Does the site look well organized?

2.Do the links work?

3.Does the site appear well maintained?

a)

Authority

b)

Appearance

c)

Currency

d)

Accuracy

28.

1. In analyzing a hypothesis on global warming, the average temperature of the earth is used over and over again. One group of scientists claims that global warming is occurring because the average temperature of the earth has increased 0.8 degrees Celsius in the last hundred years. Another group of scientists states that global warming is not happening, due to the fact that the earth’s temperature fluctuates only 0.8 degrees Celsius over the past hundred years. Which statement below best reflects how two groups of scientists can use the same data to justify two different conclusions?

a)

A. Data can be examined in context with other data points in order to draw valid conclusions.

b)

B. Data in science is rarely accurate and should not be used in a scientific argument.

c)

C. The data is false and needs to be corrected since it can’t prove either side of a scientific argument.

d)

D. Data is frequently used outside of context to benefit the conclusion scientists want to reach.

29.

1. Scientists performed an experiment addressing the development of the theory of evolution. During the experiment the scientific team found very unusual results. Which statement best reflects what the scientists should do next?

a)

A. Change variables in this experiment and repeat it until he gets the data he was expecting.

b)

B. Have other scientists replicate his experiment exactly and see if they get the same results.

c)

C. Assume the scientists did everything correctly and write up his results to get published in a scientific journal.

d)

D. The scientists made a mistake somewhere, but should alter the results to better match his original hypothesis.

30.

1. Janelle believes that the results Josh found while doing his experiment are incorrect and not accurate. Which of the following statements explains what Janelle can do to prove that Josh’s results are incorrect?

a)

A. Janelle can replicate Josh's experiment to see if she gets the same results.

b)

B. Janelle can do a different experiment and show that the results are different.

c)

C. Janelle can change variables in Josh's experiment to try to change the results.

d)

D. Janelle can research what should likely happen in the experiment from an online resource.

31.

1. Read the passage "Cold Fusion" in the box below


Predict the reason the scientific community rejected the idea of cold fusion?

a)

A. Other scientists were tried to contact them and they would not answer.

b)

B. Cold fusion was a topic that was cited frequently among the scientific community.

c)

C. Scientists in the community were unable to replicate the experiment with the same methods and obtain the same results.

d)

D. The original scientists were unable to attend a science community meeting involving cold fusion to explain their evidence.

32.

When presented with a claim, scientists will look at alternative ways data related to the claim could be explained. Which statement reflects why it is important if id alternative scientific explanations when presented with a data set?

a)

to provide strength & justification of the original claim

b)

to ensure a wide variety of opinions from the general pop are heard

c)

to provide a platform for arguments not supported by data to be discussed

d)

to id how explanations can be manipulated to confirm the original claim

33.

Which is a way to examine the accuracy of a source

a)

The methodology of the research

b)

its list of other works cited

c)

check it against other reputable sources

d)

all of the above

34.

If something is relevant, it means...

a)

the information is timely

b)

it is a reliable, truthful, and correct

c)

the information meets your needs and it is important

d)

it has a reliable author

35.

Choose which questions you could ask when trying to evaluate sources under the criteria of authority?

a)

Who is the author

b)

What if there is no author for the internet source

c)

Can you find the authority or credentials of the publisher

d)

all of the above

36.

Popcorn is America’s favorite snack food. Popcorn has been around for over 200 years!  It was originally made by Native Americans.  17 billion quarts of popcorn are sold each year, more than any other snack food.  Nebraska produces the most popcorn out of any other state. Since more popcorn is sold than any other snack food, it must be America’s favorite!

Which of the sentence is the claim ?

a)

Popcorn is America's favorite snack food.

b)

Popcorn has been around for over 200 years!

c)

17 billion quarts of popcorn are sold each year, more than any other snack food.

d)

Since more popcorn is sold than any other snack food, it must be America's favorite!

37.

Which piece of evidence could be used to BEST support this claim:


High school students should be required to wear uniforms.

a)

When adding everything up, a school uniform could end up costing more than $200.

b)

A student reported, "Allowing us to wear our own clothes gives us a chance to show our unique style and independence."

c)

At one school that recently required students to wear uniforms, attendence rates went up, and behavior incidents went down.

d)

School uniforms can be ordered online .

38.

What does reliable mean when referring to sources for your writing?

a)

Something is credible, trustworthy, and objective.

b)

Something is printed online by more than one site.

c)

You can depend on that source to give you accurate opinions.

39.

Why is using reliable sources important?

a)

To clarify your understanding of the topic.

b)

To find other people who think like you do.

c)

So you can be sure you are providing the whole truth.

d)

To prove that you're right and everyone who disagrees with you is wrong.

40.

What lowers an author's reliability?

a)

If they are trying to persuade or convince the audience.

b)

If they are writing to inform the audience.

c)

If they are writing to educate the audience.

d)

If they present both sides of the issue.

41.

How can you avoid using unreliable sources?

a)

Look for newspapers, magazines, and organizations that have good reputations.

b)

Make sure the author is an expert on the topic.

c)

Verify your information by using more than one source.

d)

Look only for sources that support what you believe.

42.
The variable that is being tested, counted, or measured and is responding to the independent variable is known as 
a)
Control
b)
Constant
c)
Independent Variable
d)
Dependent Variable
43.

Curious Carl conducted an experiment on the eating habits of black bears. While living in the woods, Carl was able to record the daily diet of five bears. After a year of observation, Carl summarized his findings in the graph. According to his data, which statement is an inference rather than an observation?

a)

The bears ate more plants than animals.

b)

The bears ate more large animals than fish.

c)

Given a choice, bears would rather eat plants.

d)

Only a small portion of the bears' diets were rodents.

44.

1. In analyzing a hypothesis on global warming, the average temperature of the earth is used over and over again. One group of scientists claims that global warming is occurring because the average temperature of the earth has increased 0.8 degrees Celsius in the last hundred years. Another group of scientists states that global warming is not happening, due to the fact that the earth’s temperature fluctuates only 0.8 degrees Celsius over the past hundred years. Which statement below best reflects how two groups of scientists can use the same data to justify two different conclusions?

a)

A. Data can be examined in context with other data points in order to draw valid conclusions.

b)

B. Data in science is rarely accurate and should not be used in a scientific argument.

c)

C. The data is false and needs to be corrected since it can’t prove either side of a scientific argument.

d)

D. Data is frequently used outside of context to benefit the conclusion scientists want to reach.

45.

1. Scientists performed an experiment addressing the development of the theory of evolution. During the experiment the scientific team found very unusual results. Which statement best reflects what the scientists should do next?

a)

A. Change variables in this experiment and repeat it until he gets the data he was expecting.

b)

B. Have other scientists replicate his experiment exactly and see if they get the same results.

c)

C. Assume the scientists did everything correctly and write up his results to get published in a scientific journal.

d)

D. The scientists made a mistake somewhere, but should alter the results to better match his original hypothesis.

46.

1. Read the passage "Cold Fusion" in the box below


Predict the reason the scientific community rejected the idea of cold fusion?

a)

A. Other scientists were tried to contact them and they would not answer.

b)

B. Cold fusion was a topic that was cited frequently among the scientific community.

c)

C. Scientists in the community were unable to replicate the experiment with the same methods and obtain the same results.

d)

D. The original scientists were unable to attend a science community meeting involving cold fusion to explain their evidence.

47.

1. Rachel is conducting a science experiment in which she examines the amount of methane released into the atmosphere from farming. She recently read an online article stating that scientists saw a decrease in methane when they substituted traditional grass for a dry seaweed product to use as food for cows. Rachel is not certain if the original online article can be trusted but she thinks it is a good basis for an experiment. What should be Rachel’s next step before she begins experimenting?

a)

A. Rachel should decide the independent variable for her experiment.

b)

B. Rachel should decide and create a hypothesis based on her research.

c)

C. Rachel should get the opinion of other scientists upon the validity of the experiment.

d)

D. Rachel should look for other published scientific journals or articles that provide information relating to this experiment.

48.

1. A group of students are researching the best methods for converting algal oils into bio-diesel. Which of the following would be the best reliable source of information to use in the investigation?

a)

A. step by step instructions from a blog on social media.

b)

B. a magazine found in the school library regarding the economic cost of bio-fuels.

c)

C. a university study surveying the known methods for converting algae to bio-fuel found through a Google search engine.

d)

D. a pamphlet distributed at a local gas station claiming that bio-fuels degrade cars more quickly therefore making it more expensive.

49.

1. Scientists are doing an experiment to see which brand of 30 SPF sunscreen works best. They applied the different brands of sunscreen to an object that measures the amount of UV rays (sunlight) that gets through the sunscreen. The scientists will use the data to compile a list of the best sunscreen brands. They also run a tests with no sunscreen. Why is it important that the scientist gather empirical data in order to make their decisions?

a)

A. Data allows scientific theories and laws to form.

b)

B. Data provides evidence to conclude their observations and hypothesis.

c)

C. Data allows the scientists to gain all credit for experiments taking place.

d)

D. Data ensures that scientists are following the scientific method in the proper order.

50.

1. Cholera is a bacteria that causes an infection of the intestine. A person can contract cholera by drinking water or eating food contaminated with the cholera bacterium.Scientists at the University of Central Florida (UCF) are studying a theory of the transmission of the bacteria Cholera. They have predicted the conditions needed in the water to avoid the transmission. Which of the following statements explains how the UCF scientists will be able to prove this theory true to the scientific community?

a)

A. The scientists will have to prove that most doctors believed cholera was an airborne illness.

b)

B. The scientists will determined that cholera didn’t affect the lungs, so it couldn’t be airborne.

c)

C. The scientists will write a paper on cholera and the transmission through contaminated food or water.

d)

D. The scientists will have to show data providing evidence for the 500 cases where cholera in water was not transmitted.

51.

What is the title of this graph?

a)

Type of fertilizer

b)

Average plant height

c)

The effect of fertilizer on plant height

d)

The effect of plant height on fertilizer

52.

What is the independent variable?

a)

Type of fertilizer

b)

Average plant height

c)

The effect of fertilizer on plant height

d)

The effect of plant height on fertilizer

53.

What is the dependent variable?

a)

Type of fertilizer

b)

Average plant height

c)

The effect of fertilizer on plant height

d)

The effect of plant height on fertilizer

54.

What is the BEST title for this graph?

a)

The Relationship between Time Spent Studying and Test Grades

b)

The effect of Time Spent Studying and Test Grades

c)

Time Spent Studying

d)

Test Grades

55.

What is the independent variable for this graph?

a)

The Relationship between Time Spent Studying and Test Grades

b)

The effect of Time Spent Studying and Test Grades

c)

Time Spent Studying

d)

Test Grades

56.

What is the dependent variable for this graph?

a)

The Relationship between Time Spent Studying and Test Grades

b)

The effect of Time Spent Studying and Test Grades

c)

Time Spent Studying

d)

Test Grades

57.

What what type of relationship is displayed in this graph?

a)

inverse (indirect) releationship

b)

direct relationship

c)

no relationship

d)

not applicable

58.

What is the BEST title for this graph?

a)

Discipline Division

b)

Popular Bachelor's Degrees, 1999-2000

c)

Number of Degrees Awarded

d)

The effect of Discipline Division on Degrees Awarded

59.

What is the independent variable for this graph?

a)

Discipline Division

b)

Popular Bachelor's Degrees, 1999-2000

c)

Number of Degrees Awarded

d)

The effect of Discipline Division on Degrees Awarded

60.

What is the dependent variable for this graph?

a)

Discipline Division

b)

Popular Bachelor's Degrees, 1999-2000

c)

Number of Degrees Awarded

d)

The effect of Discipline Division on Degrees Awarded

61.

Which discipline division awarded the most degrees?

a)

Pyschology

b)

Business

c)

Engineering

d)

Education

e)

Visual & Performing Arts

62.

Which discipline division awarded the least degrees?

a)

Pyschology

b)

Business

c)

Engineering

d)

Education

e)

Visual & Performing Arts

63.

What is the best TITLE for this graph?

a)

The effect of missed free throws on wins

b)

The relationship between missed free throws and wins

c)

Number of missed free throws

d)

Number of wins

64.

What is the relationship shown in this graph?

a)

direct relationship

b)

inverse (indirect) relationship

c)

no relationship

d)

not applicable

65.

How does missing free throws impact your team’s chance of winning?

a)

It does not impact it.

b)

Missing free throws decreases the likelihood of winning.

c)

Missing free throws increases the likelihood of winning.

d)

Free throws aren't how you win a game.