Models, Systems & Scientific Explanations — Drills · Grade 6 Science
Chapter: Inquiry, Measurement & ModelsWhat these drills covers
By the end of Models, Systems & Scientific Explanations you should be able to:
- I can explain why a useful model is always a simplification.
- I can state the limit of a model and give an observation that falls outside it.
- I can explain what makes scientists replace one model with another.
4 questions, multiple choice and written answer, each with a worked explanation.
Vocabulary used: model, system boundary, evidence, system boundary, uncertainty.
Problem 1
- model: A representation used to explain or predict selected features and relationships.
- A useful model must reproduce every feature at full size.
- A sealed system cannot exchange energy.
- A sample with missing measurements has proved those values are zero.
Answer and explanation
model: A representation used to explain or predict selected features and relationships.
A representation used to explain or predict selected features and relationships.
Problem 2
- A sealed system cannot exchange energy.
- system boundary: The chosen limit separating a system from its surroundings.
- A useful model must reproduce every feature at full size.
- Repeating any method makes every causal claim true.
Answer and explanation
system boundary: The chosen limit separating a system from its surroundings.
The chosen limit separating a system from its surroundings.
Problem 3
Answer and explanation
The surroundings and diminishing temperature difference matter; a trend over a short interval need not continue below room temperature.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.
Problem 4
Answer and explanation
No. It limits numerical population predictions, while the represented feeding relationships may still be supported.
Compare the scientific meaning and reasoning after an independent attempt. A different accurate supported response can be correct; human review is required.