1.
What is a hypothesis?
Correct Answer
B. A prediction of the correct answer to a question
Explanation
A hypothesis is a prediction made based on prior knowledge or observations, which aims to provide a possible explanation for a specific phenomenon or question. It is not a collection of evidence, as evidence is used to support or refute a hypothesis. It is also different from telling others about the results of an experiment, as a hypothesis is formulated before conducting an experiment. Similarly, it is distinct from trying to decide what the results of an experiment mean, as that would be the interpretation of the data obtained, not the initial prediction.
2.
A scientist points out that the trees on the north side of the forest are dying. He sees something unusual growing on the tree trunks. He wonders why the trees are dying. Which part of the scientific method has the scientist completed?
Correct Answer
D. Observing and questioning
Explanation
The scientist has completed the step of observing and questioning. By noticing that the trees on the north side of the forest are dying and observing something unusual growing on the tree trunks, the scientist has made observations and raised questions about why the trees are dying. This is the initial stage of the scientific method where scientists gather information and make observations to identify a problem or phenomenon that needs further investigation.
3.
Sam is studying parts of a plant. Which tool would be MOST useful if Sam wants to see parts of a leaf?
Correct Answer
A. Hand lens
Explanation
A hand lens would be the most useful tool for Sam to see parts of a leaf because it provides magnification and allows for a closer examination of the leaf's structure. A hand lens is a small, handheld magnifying glass that can be used to observe intricate details of the leaf, such as the veins, stomata, and cells. The other options, pan balance, thermometer, and telescope, are not designed for examining the parts of a leaf and would not provide the necessary magnification or clarity.
4.
Scientists study the natural world. Evidence is an important part of their studies. What is evidence?
Correct Answer
B. Data that support or reject a hypothesis
Explanation
Evidence in scientific studies refers to the data that either supports or rejects a hypothesis. Scientists rely on evidence to draw conclusions and make informed decisions about the natural world. This evidence can come in the form of experimental results, observations, measurements, or any other data that can be used to evaluate the validity of a hypothesis. By analyzing this evidence, scientists can determine whether their hypothesis is supported or rejected, leading to a better understanding of the natural world.
5.
Jacob wants to find out which cat food his cat likes the best. What variable could he use in his investigation?
Correct Answer
B. Type of cat food
Explanation
Jacob could use the variable "type of cat food" in his investigation to determine which cat food his cat likes the best. By offering different types of cat food to his cat and observing its preferences, Jacob can gather data to determine which specific type of cat food his cat prefers.
6.
Karina and her classmates take water samples from the same nearby pond. Then they are to take measurements of the water temperature. How can the teacher ensure that each group’s results are similar?
Correct Answer
A. Tell students to measure using the same specific tool
Explanation
To ensure that each group's results are similar, the teacher should tell students to measure using the same specific tool. This is because using different measuring tools could lead to variations in the measurements, resulting in different results. By using the same tool, the students will have a standardized method of measurement, increasing the likelihood of similar results.
7.
Scientists make observations, conduct experiments, and draw conclusions. Which statement is true of ALL scientists?
Correct Answer
B. Scientists study the natural world.
Explanation
Scientists study the natural world because their main focus is to understand and explain the phenomena and processes that occur in the physical universe. This includes studying living things, items found on Earth, and even things found in outer space, as they are all part of the natural world. By making observations, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions, scientists strive to uncover the laws and principles that govern the natural world and expand our knowledge about it.
8.
Emily grew one plant on the window sill. She grew another plant inside a black plastic bag. She made a poster about how the plants grew. What does Emily’s poster do?
Correct Answer
D. Communicates the data
Explanation
Emily's poster communicates the data because it visually presents information about how the plants grew. It likely includes pictures, diagrams, and possibly written descriptions to convey the growth process and any observations or results. The purpose of the poster is to share this information with others, such as classmates or teachers, to inform and educate them about the plants' growth.
9.
Michael places a beaker of water in sunlight and measures how the temperature changes. Which unit of measurement will Michael use to record his data?
Correct Answer
C. Degrees Celsius
Explanation
Michael will use the unit of measurement degrees Celsius to record his data because he is measuring the temperature change of the water. Degrees Celsius is the standard unit for measuring temperature.
10.
A scientist plans to create a model of a coral reef. What must the scientist do when building the model?
Correct Answer
A. Include the most important parts
Explanation
When building a model of a coral reef, the scientist must include the most important parts. This means that the scientist should focus on including the key components and features that are essential to represent a coral reef accurately. By including the most important parts, the model will be able to effectively demonstrate the characteristics and structure of a coral reef.
11.
Which is a measure of how hot or cold something is?
Correct Answer
B. Temperature
Explanation
Temperature is a measure of how hot or cold something is. It quantifies the level of thermal energy present in an object or environment. It is commonly measured using a thermometer and is expressed in units such as Celsius or Fahrenheit. Temperature plays a crucial role in various scientific, industrial, and everyday applications, influencing physical and chemical processes, weather patterns, and human comfort.
12.
Metersticks, screwdrivers, and calculators are all used to shape, build, and produce other things. How can these objects be grouped?
Correct Answer
A. As tools
Explanation
These objects can be grouped as tools because they are all used to shape, build, and produce other things. Metersticks are used for measuring and marking, screwdrivers are used for tightening and loosening screws, and calculators are used for performing mathematical calculations. All of these objects serve a specific purpose and are essential tools in various tasks and industries.
13.
Some parts of a weather report cannot be measured with an instrument. Which weather condition do you NOT measure with an instrument?
Correct Answer
B. Precipitation type
Explanation
Precipitation type is the weather condition that cannot be measured with an instrument. While wind direction, present temperature, and precipitation amount can all be measured using various instruments such as anemometers, thermometers, and rain gauges, precipitation type requires visual observation. It refers to the form in which precipitation falls, such as rain, snow, sleet, or hail, and can only be determined by visually observing the weather conditions.