Grade 9 · Science · Unit 14 of 17
How Science Works
Hypotheses, variables, bias, peer review and models.
What your child practises
Practises how scientists test predictions: hypotheses, variables, fair tests, bias, peer review, and how models and theories change with evidence.
Manitoba Curriculum learning outcome: SCI.9.D.1, SCI.9.D.2, SCI.9.D.3, SCI.9.D.4, SCI.9.C.3 · systematic data collection, hypotheses, experiments, bias, peer review and models
Sample questions
A taste of this unit. In the app, questions change every time and get easier or harder to match your child.
Question 1
A model is…
- the same as the real thing
- a fact that cannot change
- a representation that helps explain a phenomenon
a representation that helps explain a phenomenon
Hint: Models can be physical, mathematical or computer-based.
Question 2
A hypothesis is…
- a conclusion
- a testable prediction that explains something
- a proven fact
a testable prediction that explains something
Hint: It is tested by an experiment.
Question 3
A scientific theory is…
- a guess
- a well-tested explanation supported by lots of evidence
- an opinion
a well-tested explanation supported by lots of evidence
Hint: It is the best fit for the evidence at the time.
Question 4
Variables kept the same in a fair test are the…
- hypotheses
- responding variables
- controlled variables
controlled variables
Hint: Only one variable changes at a time.
Question 5
Which question can science answer?
- Is it right to like winter?
- How does temperature affect how fast sugar dissolves?
- Which flavour is best?
How does temperature affect how fast sugar dissolves?
Hint: Science answers questions that can be tested.
Question 6
Sharing results in a report with methods allows other scientists to…
- avoid reading it
- change the results
- repeat the work and check it
repeat the work and check it
Hint: Clear methods make science trustworthy.