Models, Claims, Evidence & Reasoning — Drills · Grade 7 Science
Chapter: Scientific Inquiry & Diversity of LifeWhat these drills covers
By the end of Models, Claims, Evidence & Reasoning you should be able to:
- I can explain models, claims, evidence & reasoning.
- I can use evidence, a model, and stated assumptions to support a biological explanation.
4 questions, multiple choice, numeric and written answer, each with a worked explanation.
Vocabulary used: claim, evidence, reasoning, model, limitation.
Problem 1
Which is evidence rather than a causal explanation?
- The cover reduces exposure
- The covered sample lost 5 g
- The method is perfect
- All evaporation stopped
Answer and explanation
The covered sample lost 5 g
The measured 5 g loss is evidence; explanations and universal conclusions need further reasoning.
Problem 2
Uncovered loss is 15 g and covered loss is 6 g. Find the difference.
Answer and explanation
9 g
15−6=9 g less measured loss.
Problem 3
Which part of “the soil is wet because it rained” is an inference?
Answer and explanation
The proposed rainfall cause is an inference; wet soil is the stated observation. Watering or another source could also explain it.
Problem 4
Why should a model have a legend?
Answer and explanation
A legend explains what symbols represent so readers can distinguish meaningful relationships from invented display choices.