EC-6 Science
Which type of graph or chart would be best used to show the velocity of a moving vehicle at different points of a road trip? A) bar graph B) line graph C) histogram D) circle graph
B) line graph
Of the following, which is most appropriate to do after testing a hypothesis? A) draw conclusions B) organize data C) formulate a theory D) propose a new hypothesis
B) organize data
When examining the color and clarity of 1 gram of sugar in 30 milliliters of water, which of the following would be the best substitute for a test tube? A) microscope B) drinking glass C) graduated cylinder D) beaker
C) graduated cylinder
the unit for distance in the metric system
Meters
Which of the following are appropriate lab safety standards? Select all answers that apply. A) A first aid kit should be kept in the classroom. B) Students should quickly clean up after a spill or accident. C) A 1-minute rinse at an eyewash station is required if a student gets a chemical in the eye. D) Students should wear safety goggles when working with fire.
A & D
Which of the following is equivalent to 3 meters? A) 300 centimeters B) 30 centimeters C) 300 millimeters D) 3 feet
A) 300 centimeters
If 2.54 cm = 1 in, about how many inches are in 1 meter? A) 39.4 in B) 36 in C) 30 in D) 91.44 in
A) 39.4 in
Which of the following is the best example of a response to an external stimuli? A) A plant grows toward the sunlight. B) A woman in labor has a contraction. C) One nerve cell signals the next one to fire. D) A hungry students' stomach growls.
A) A plant grows toward the sunlight.
Newton's third law of motion states that for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Which of the following is the best example of the application of this law? A) An airplane moves in the opposite direction of the air pushed out by its engines. B) A ball continues to roll when kicked. C) More force is needed to push a wagon full of children than an empty wagon. D) When a car suddenly stops, the passengers keep moving forward until something stops them.
A) An airplane moves in the opposite direction of the air pushed out by its engines.
Which type of graph or chart would be best used to show comparisons between the volume of water drunk by athletes competing in two different sports? A) bar graph B) circle graph C) line graph D) pie chart
A) Bar graph
What is the most important use of a control group in an experimental investigation? A) Control groups give a baseline to compare results to. B) Control groups set the standard for the experimental group to try to achieve. C) Control groups allow scientists to practice making measurements. D) Control groups allow scientists to save time by not taking measurements.
A) Control groups give a baseline to compare results to.
Which of the following units is most appropriate to measure the volume of a solid? A) Cubic centimeters B) Newtons C) Grams D) Milliliters
A) Cubic centimeters
Which metric prefix indicates a factor of 10? A) Deca- B) Deci- C) Kilo- D) Centi-
A) Deca-
Mr. Muldoon is teaching about converting between metric and English units. One of his students refuses to engage in the activity and states "I am never leaving America so I don't need to learn this." How should he respond? A) Explain the many ways in which people in America use the metric system. B) Give him detention. C) Give him a zero for participation for the day and call home. D) Excuse him from the activity.
A) Explain the many ways in which people in America use the metric system.
Mr. Grubb is teaching about accuracy and precision. He asks students to write an essay explaining the difference between the two. He gets a couple of essays that are two sentences long. How can he improve this? A) Give a rubric which clearly communicates expectations. B) Reprimand the students who did not give enough information in front of the class. C) This is an appropriate amount of information to give. D) Require students to write at least two pages.
A) Give a rubric which clearly communicates expectations.
Ms. Ludgate would like her students to participate in an Engagement activity for a unit on vascular and nonvascular plants. Which of the following is the most appropriate for an Engagement activity in the 5E Instructional Model? A) Have students pair up, and give each pair a sample of a nonvascular plant and a vascular plant. Ask students to make observations and notice differences, then have each pair share their findings with the class. B) Give students a mid-unit quiz over characteristics of vascular and nonvascular plants. C) Have students research vascular and nonvascular plants and make a presentation to share with the class. D) Ask students to develop an investigation to determine whether a plant is vascular or nonvascular.
A) Have students pair up, and give each pair a sample of a nonvascular plant and a vascular plant. Ask students to make observations and notice differences, then have each pair share their findings with the class
A student is investigating the growth of Elodea under different light sources. Which of the following is the best research question for this student? A) How does the type of light source affect the rate of photosynthesis of Elodea plants? B) How does the color of an Elodea plant affect its growth under different light sources? C) How does the amount of time spent in the sun affect the growth of Elodea plants? D) How does the distance from the light source affect Elodea plants?
A) How does the type of light source affect the rate of photosynthesis of Elodea plants?
Which of the following activities can contribute to an increase in the carbon dioxide in the Earth's atmosphere? I. the burning of fossil fuels II. volcanic activity III. condensation A) I and II B) II and III C) I and III D) I, II, and III
A) I and II
Suppose Mike's actual weight is 165 lbs. His scale says his weight is 164 lbs. What can be said about his scale? A) It is accurate. B) It is precise. C) It is neither precise, nor accurate. D) It is both precise and accurate.
A) It is accurate.
Students in Ms. Weikel's class are having difficulty remembering the metric unit prefixes. What should she do to help them remember the prefixes? A) Teach students a helpful mnemonic device. B) Give daily quizzes until all students get 100 percent. C) Give them a long worksheet with a lot of conversions so they get practice. D) Have students write an essay about the origins of the prefixes.
A) Teach students a helpful mnemonic device.
A teacher tells the following true story to her fifth-grade class. "Some scientists in Utah had made a wonderful discovery! They discovered a source of huge amounts of cheap energy that was easy to produce. They performed experiments, analyzed their data, and published their results. Scientists at research centers all over the world tried to do the experiments in their own labs, but there was a problem: no one could get the same results as the original scientists. The original results could not be reproduced and eventually their conclusions were rejected. Their experiment had not worked in any other lab, and no cheap and abundant energy source was developed." Of the following choices, which concept is she most likely preparing to teach? A) The importance of repeatability in science. B) The reliability of communication in science. C) The embarrassment scientists must face when they are wrong. D) The need to perform investigations in science.
A) The importance of repeatability in science.
Which of the following is NOT a valid reason for giving all elementary students opportunities to design and perform investigations? A) To learn that all of the questions in science have answers. B) To learn the importance of keeping certain things constant. C) To learn how to make decisions about what to measure. D) To learn that laboratory experiments are not the only way to investigate.
A) To learn that all of the questions in science have answers
In a typical science class, the "science kit," or the teacher herself, selects and prepares the tools that will be used for lab measurement. Later in the year, after having had experience with various tools, would it benefit students to have a variety of tools available from which to choose rather than a preselected set of tools? Why or why not? A) Yes, a variety of tools requires the student to think about why a particular tool should be used. B) No, with a variety of tools, the students may select the wrong tool for the job. C) Yes, a variety of tools means the teacher can provide only one tool of each type for the class. D) No, a variety of tools will put an unnecessary learning load on the students.
A) Yes, a variety of tools requires the student to think about why a particular tool should be used.
Which of the following students would qualify as an English-language learner? A) a student whose family speaks Choctaw at home B) a student who speaks predominantly English at home, but is also fluent in Spanish C) a student who moved to the school district from a different country D) a student enrolled in an English class
A) a student whose family speaks Choctaw at home
Mr. Chang's fourth-grade students are just finishing a unit on solar energy. They built solar cookers and solar heaters, and the students are excited about the potentials of using solar energy in the future. Which additional activity would best help students make wise decisions about using solar energy when they are home and business owners? A) an age-appropriate cost/benefit analysis B) a look at a graph of fossil fuel use in the United States today C) a measure of the maximum temperature achieved with solar panels D) a lesson on photovoltaic cells, which produce electricity from solar energy
A) an age-appropriate cost/benefit analysis
During a sixth-grade unit on suspensions, Mr. Ricky teaches that the color of a suspension depends on how light reflects on the solutes. He uses the examples of glacial lakes, which contain silt from the glacier's movement. When sunlight hits the lake and reflects from this suspended silt, the lake appears a spectacular turquoise blue or green color. Of the following student activities, which would be most useful to include while assessing students' understanding of his unit on suspensions? A) drawing a diagram of why glacial lakes are blue B) inviting a local scientist in to talk about the effect of climate change on the lakes C) calculate the rate of dissolution based on the lake color D) creating a photo collage of the various colors of lakes
A) drawing a diagram of why glacial lakes are blue
While Jessica is viewing membrane-stained cells under a compound microscope, she notices that the cells appear to have specialized organelles. These cells are most likely which of the following? A) eukaryotic cells B) bacteria cells C) prokaryotic cells D) archaebacteria cells
A) eukaryotic cells
Comets are composed of: A) gas, dust, and ice. B) only gas. C) only ice. D) only dust.
A) gas, dust, and ice.
When determining the accurate measurement of a liquid, which piece of laboratory equipment would be best to find the liquid's volume to the nearest milliliter? A) graduated cylinder B) ruler C) triple beam balance beaker
A) graduated cylinder
Patrick likes to play horseshoes. He consistently tosses the horseshoes about one meter to the left of the stake. Which of the following accurately describes his results? A) high precision, low accuracy B) low precision, low accuracy C) high precision, high accuracy D) low precision, high accuracy
A) high precision, low accuracy
Mr. Fielder has assigned students an open-ended research question for his fifth-grade science class. Which of the following should Mr. Fielder provide to ensure active engagement for his students in the activity? A) inquiry-based instruction B) didactic questioning on clickers C) at-home research questions and projects D) explicit teaching
A) inquiry-based instruction
Sea otters eat sea urchins. This keeps the number of sea urchins in check and protects kelp forests, which are vital to their ecosystem. Which of the following best describes the most important role of the sea otter? A) keystone species B) ecosystem engineer C) apex predator D) limiting factor
A) keystone species
Which of the following is the responsibility of the teacher with regard to the use of chemicals? A) knowing the chemicals used in each laboratory experiment and reviewing the material safety data sheet for them B) requiring labels on all hazardous materials C) disposing of hazardous substances by taking them outside to the dumpster D) maintaining material safety data sheets for available chemicals
A) knowing the chemicals used in each laboratory experiment and reviewing the material safety data sheet for them
Calvin planted a tree that measured 0.5 meters tall. If he recorded the growth of the tree every month for two years, what would be the best way to display his findings, in order to visually compare the progression of growth over time? A) line graph B) data table C) pie graph D) scatter plot
A) line graph
Patricia is measuring the volume of a chemical in the lab using a graduated cylinder. She takes three measurements at 40 mL, 35 mL, and 50 mL. She pours the chemical into a 50-mL beaker, and it reaches the 50-mL marking exactly. Which of the following descriptions of her data is likely correct? A) low accuracy, low precision B) high accuracy, high precision C) high accuracy, low precision D) low accuracy, high precision
A) low accuracy, low precision
Which of the following is the most appropriate unit for expressing the volume of an average glass of milk? A) pint B) pound C) gallon D) ounce
A) pint
Which of the following colors of visible light has the longest wavelength? A) red B) yellow C) violet D) green
A) red
A scientist wants to show the correlation between the genre and the number of songs downloaded from the internet. Which type of graph would be best suited for this? A) scatter plot B) line graph C) circle graph D) bar graph
A) scatter plot
Which of the following best describes the primary function of the human skeleton system? A) supporting the structure of the body B) providing nutrients to the body C) regulating organ function D) regulating body temperature
A) supporting the structure of the body
The majority of nitrogen on Earth is found in which of the following? A) the atmosphere B) trees C) animal waste D) plants
A) the atmosphere
When deciding to house a live animal in the classroom, the risk of a potential health hazard to the student or animal must be weighed against the educational value added. What guidelines must first be considered to address this potential hazard, prior to making a choice of getting the animal for the classroom? A) the children that might be affected by allergic symptoms B) procedures for caring for the animal during weekends and holidays C) standards for keeping the conditions sanitary and odor free D) plans for food, housing and comfort of the animal
A) the children that might be affected by allergic symptoms
To help students learn the discovery nature of the scientific method, teachers should provide opportunities for them to conduct experiments to practice the steps. Which of the following is the best task for the teacher during this experimentation process? A) walking around the room, guiding students and answering questions B) cleaning up after students C) grading lab reports in order to give prompt feedback D) designing a new, better experiment for the students to conduct the next day
A) walking around the room, guiding students and answering questions
Which set of the following factors can affect the growth of an organism? A) water, temperature, and light B) species, location, and size of territory C) diet, role in the food chain, and age D) water, elevation, and country of origin
A) water, temperature, and light
a way of determining/discussing how close a measurement is to its actual value; often defined as 1/2 of the smallest measuring unit
Accuracy
a set of different values which are close to a true value
Accurate
What is the most important reason for repeatability in scientific investigations? A) Repeatability allows many scientists to see the results. B) Repeatability decreases the impact of human error, increases the reliability of results, and solidifies scientific law. C) Repeatability causes scientists to consume more materials, which is good for the economy. D) Repeatability ensures scientists are using the same units of measurement.
B) Repeatability decreases the impact of human error, increases the reliability of results, and solidifies scientific law.
Red flowers are dominant over white flowers in roses. A heterozygous red flowering rose is mated with a purebred, white colored rose. What percentage of their offspring will have the genotype rr? A) 25% B) 50% C) 75% D) 100%
B) 50%
If 2.2 lb = 1 kg, and Mary weighs 120 lbs, how much does she weigh in kg? A) 264 kg B) 55 kg C) 60 kg D) 120 kg
B) 55 kg
Which of the following is the best example of homeostasis? A) A snake basks in the sun and its temperature rises. B) A person's blood pressure is too high and their brain sends signals to slow their heart rate. C) A person consumes a high number of calories each day and gains weight. D) Flowering plants produce seeds, which are scattered and become new plants.
B) A person's blood pressure is too high and their brain sends signals to slow their heart rate.
Students in a fifth-grade class are arguing about whether evolution is a hypothesis, a theory, or a law. After giving the definitions of each, how might a teacher best help her students resolve their argument and understand the differences in the three terms? A) Explain the observations Darwin made in his journey on the Beagle, and why he developed the theory of evolution. B) As a class, gather and categorize examples of hypotheses, theories, and laws and ask students to develop a valid reason for categorizing evolution as one of the three. C) Give the dictionary definition of hypothesis, theory, and law, and then explain that evolution is a theory, and why. D) Look up the answer on the internet and cut off the conversation.
B) As a class, gather and categorize examples of hypotheses, theories, and laws and ask students to develop a valid reason for categorizing evolution as one of the three.
The uneven heating of the Earth results in which of the following? A) The melting of polar ice caps. B) Deserts commonly found near the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. C) Deserts commonly found near the equator. D) Large ice sheets found between 66.5 degrees north latitude and 66.5 degrees south latitude.
B) Deserts commonly found near the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn.
The students in Ms. Dukes' fifth-grade class are using electronic scales to measure the weights of various rocks during a geology lesson. One group has consistently high values for the weights. What is the first thing she should ask the group to help them get back on track? A) May I try measuring the weight and show you how to do it? B) Did you zero the scale before you started measuring? C) Did you measure the weights three times for each rock? D) Did you take turns measuring the weights?
B) Did you zero the scale before you started measuring?
Suppose Monica's actual weight is 122 lbs. Her scale says her weight is 99.82 lbs. What can be said about her scale? A) It is accurate. B) It is precise. C) It is neither precise, nor accurate. D) It is both precise and accurate.
B) It is precise.
Which metric prefix indicates a factor of 1000? A) Deci- B) Kilo- C) Centi- D) Deca-
B) Kilo-
Which of the following scientists won two Nobel Prizes, one in physics and one in chemistry, and discovered the elements Radium and Polonium? A) Antoine Lavoisier B) Marie Curie. C) Dmitri Mendeleev D) Rosalind Franklin
B) Marie Curie.
Mr. Howard would like to create a short freewriting activity to determine whether his students are using critical-thinking skills on their current topic. Which Bloom's verb would be the best for him to use to start his prompt? A) Select B) Predict C) Define D) Summarize
B) Predict
Mr. Shields wants to create an engaging inquiry-based activity for her students in the upcoming physical properties of matter unit. Which of the following activities best accomplishes Mr. Shields' goal? A) Create a graphic organizer that highlights the physical properties of various objects seen in the students' textbook. B) Provide students with a mixture that they separate into groups using different physical properties of the component for the different groups. C) Use a journal to list the different physical properties of an object. D) Create a matching-terms workshop where students match a physical property to an object.
B) Provide students with a mixture that they separate into groups using different physical properties of the component for the different groups.
A teacher used the following activity to teach her elementary students about the process of science. She divided the students into teams of 3, provided them with paper, glue sticks, and scissors, and told them their goal was to build the highest tower, but only one student could touch the materials at a time. The teams would work as a relay, first one student building, with the other two coaching, then when a bell rings, switch builders, and so on until each student has had a chance to build. Which aspect of the scientific process was the teacher most likely trying to illustrate? A) Scientific theories do not become scientific laws. B) Scientific discoveries build on the discoveries of scientists who came before. C) A theory is an explanation based on general principles, observations, and conclusions. D) Peer review of data and conclusions is an important part of the scientific process.
B) Scientific discoveries build on the discoveries of scientists who came before.
Which of the following is a key characteristic of scientific inquiry? A) Scientific discovery is relative, depending on who carries out the research. B) Scientific theories are open to change as new information is discovered. C) The results of experiments should only be communicated when scientists are sure the outcome proves a scientific law. D) Scientific discoveries are more important than ethical decisions.
B) Scientific theories are open to change as new information is discovered.
Students in Ms. Kitchen's third-grade class are cataloging the different types of plants and animals they find in a one square foot section of the lawn around the playground. She shows them different kinds of graphs and asks them to figure out how they want to record and present their data to the class. What is the most likely reason she asked the students to make the decision about presentation style instead of telling them which type of graph to use? A) This method allows students to express their individual creativity. B) This method requires students to think about different ways to represent their data. C) Different types of student data must be presented in different ways. D) This method allows Ms. Kitchen to grade the students on how well they learned about different graphs.
B) This method requires students to think about different ways to represent their data.
An elementary student drops a beaker in the lab. Which of the following describes the best safety procedure for the teacher to follow when cleaning up the broken glass? A) Sweep up the shards and empty them into the trash can. B) Use forceps to pick up the large pieces, a wet paper towel to pick up the small pieces, and place all of the pieces in a glass disposal container. C) Ask the students to help by picking up shards and placing them in a glass disposal container. D) Wear latex gloves to pick up the pieces.
B) Use forceps to pick up the large pieces, a wet paper towel to pick up the small pieces, and place all of the pieces in a glass disposal container.
Which of the following instruments would be most useful to find the volume of a very large textbook? A) a large beaker B) a metric ruler C) a micrometer D) a triple-beam balance
B) a metric ruler
Which of the following is the best definition of a hypothesis? A) a well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world that is acquired through the scientific method and repeatedly tested and confirmed through observation and experimentation B) a predicted outcome based on an observation that can be further tested by experimentation C) a guess of what might happen based upon observations D) a summary of the results of an experiment
B) a predicted outcome based on an observation that can be further tested by experimentation
Mr. Murphy is planning a lesson designed to meet the needs of all learners in his science class. The goal of his lesson is to help the learner enjoy learning science. Which of the following should Mr. Murphy incorporate first into the lesson in order to reach his goal? A) the explanation of difficult science concepts B) activities focused on a variety of interests and learning styles C) a worksheet for review of major content D) stories about former students who did not like science, then learned to like it
B) activities focused on a variety of interests and learning styles
Which of the following activities would be most effective as an introductory lesson about genetics? A) an activity in which students flip a coin to determine whether they pass on dominant or recessive traits to their children, and must then draw what their child would look like B) an activity in which students are shown various traits and must record which traits they have and look for trends among the members of the class C) a poster project in which students research a genetic disorder, make a poster, and present their findings to the class D) a video over single-gene and polygenic traits with a quiz afterward
B) an activity in which students are shown various traits and must record which traits they have and look for trends among the members of the class
When studying the eating habits of leopard frogs in a certain habitat, researchers noticed that frogs with longer tongues were better able to hunt for food than leopard frogs with shorter tongues. Which of the following best describes the longer tongues observed in some of the leopard frogs? A) an instinct B) an adaptation C) a learned characteristic D) a dominant trait
B) an adaptation
Which of the following steps in the scientific method is only completed after the experiment is completed? A) making observations B) communicating data C) forming a hypothesis D) recording data
B) communicating data
Which of the following would most engage students in scientific inquiry? A) giving students tools used in various scientific processes B) having students write down three problems they encounter on a weekly basis and suggesting they use a scientific process to solve one of the three problems C) providing students an article regarding the usefulness of scientific inquiry in everyday life D) assigning students into heterogeneous groups to perform scientific investigations
B) having students write down three problems they encounter on a weekly basis and suggesting they use a scientific process to solve one of the three problems
When is the best time to teach lab safety rules? A) immediately before a test on lab safety rules B) immediately before the students begin the experiment C) all safety rules should be taught at the beginning of the year D) at the start of a new unit
B) immediately before the students begin the experiment
Which list has the layers of the Earth in the correct order, from center outward? A) core, mantle, crust, outer crust B) inner core, outer core, mantle, crust C) outer core, inner core, mantle, crust D) crust, mantle, outer core, inner core
B) inner core, outer core, mantle, crust
A student was given the kernels from an ear of seed corn that had been placed in a moist environment and allowed to sprout. The student sorted the kernels and found the percentage of kernels that had not changed at all, the percentage that had swollen but not sprouted, and the percentage that had sprouted. Which of the following types of graph is most the appropriate to use to present the findings? A) scatter plot B) pie graph C) line graph D) contour graph
B) pie graph
According the 5E model, an ideal full lesson cycle should start by ___ and end with ___. A) explaining new vocabulary; a lab activity B) piquing students' interests; some sort of evaluation C) taking notes; writing vocabulary definitions D) reading the glossary; taking notes
B) piquing students' interests; some sort of evaluation
Which guideline should always be followed when working in a laboratory? A) wear sleeveless shirts B) wear safety goggles C) remove gloves after leaving the lab D) wear open-toed shoes
B) wear safety goggles
a visual representation of data which compares values in different categories
Bar Graph
a hierarchy of levels of knowledge; each level has associated verbs teachers can use to start questions
Bloom's Taxonomy
a type of learning which makes connections across sides of the brain; incorporates activity in learning
Brain-Based Learning
Of the following, which is most likely the distance from a classroom on the second floor to the playground outside at the end of the wing? A) 1,244 inches B) 2,020 millimeters C) 105 meters D) 48 feet
C) 105 meters
Susan travels at a rate of 60 miles per hour for 3 hours. Her car uses on average one gallon of gas per 30 miles. How many gallons of gas does she use on her trip? A) 10 B) 90 C) 6 D) 180
C) 6
A classroom is 7.5 meters wide. How many centimeters wide is the room? A) 7,500 cm B) 75 cm C) 750 cm D) 0.75 cm
C) 750 cm
Which of the following is true of evolution? A) Mitosis is responsible for the genetic variation in most animal populations. B) Individual organisms change over time. C) Evolution can result in new species. D) Offspring are genetically identical to their parents.
C) Evolution can result in new species.
Mr. Bielenberg asks students to measure 5 different objects from home using different units of measurement. He does not receive a wide variety of objects. How could he improve this activity in the future? A) It is okay that there was not much variety, students still learned by measuring. B) Give students who chose 5 objects of similar sizes a bad grade. C) Give clear guidelines for expected objects. D) Make students redo the activity.
C) Give clear guidelines for expected objects.
A frozen popsicle was left in the sun and melted. Which statement is true regarding the physical properties of the popsicle after it melted? A) The number of molecules had changed. B) Its molecules were less energetic after it melted. C) It experienced a phase change. D) Its chemical composition had changed.
C) It experienced a phase change.
A student performed an experiment on three different types of paper towels. Each of the towels was soaked in a separate beaker, each containing 20 ml of water, for exactly 15 seconds. The towels were removed. What step should be next in the procedure in order to accurately identify the paper towel that absorbed the most water? A) Use three more paper towels to see how fast the remaining water is absorbed. B) Feel the paper towels to see which is the wettest. C) Measure the remaining water in each of the three beakers and compare the results. D) Squeeze each towel into a separate graduated cylinder and measure the contents.
C) Measure the remaining water in each of the three beakers and compare the results.
Ms. Lemmons' class is about to carry out a lab experiment over plant growth. Which of the following would be the most effective way to carry out the experiment? A) Ms. Lemmons can provide students with a variety of materials and allow them freedom to design their entire experiment. She can provide feedback on their lab reports once they are finished. B) Ms. Lemmons can have students carry out a virtual lab, then replicate the experiment in real life to verify the results. C) Ms. Lemmons can help the students form a hypothesis, identify their variables, and design an experiment before starting the experiment. D) Ms. Lemmons can design an efficient experiment and provide students with procedure handouts. She can ask them to read and follow the directions and monitor them while they complete the lab.
C) Ms. Lemmons can help the students form a hypothesis, identify their variables, and design an experiment before starting the experiment.
Which of the following would best help students learn to protect themselves against potential health hazards in the laboratory? A) Regularly washing laboratory equipment for the students before they come to class. B) Regularly disposing old equipment and replacing it with new. C) Regularly require students to wash their hands after a lab experience. D) Regularly reminding students to be careful when using lab equipment.
C) Regularly require students to wash their hands after a lab experience.
A popular graphic organizer used in the classroom is the Venn diagram. In which of the following assignments would students most likely find the Venn diagram to be a useful tool in organizing their information? A) The teacher has asked the students to record which foods they ate in the last 24 hours. B) The teacher has asked the students to write a hypothesis for an experimental lab. C) The teacher has asked the students to compare and contrast plants and animals. D) The teacher has asked the students to recite the location of all the safety equipment in the classroom.
C) The teacher has asked the students to compare and contrast plants and animals.
Mr. Anderson assigns a group of students to research and present rainfall disparities between the Sahara Desert and the Amazon Rainforest. Which of the following graphs would be most appropriate for the students to use? A) a Venn diagram B) a drawing C) a bar graph D) a pie chart
C) a bar graph
Mr. Orlando is teaching a unit about density, which is the amount of mass in a given volume. He would like students to practice measuring the density of various objects. Which of the following lists of equipment should Mr. Orlando provide to his students? A) a ruler, a rubber ball, and a tape measure B) a thermometer, a Bunsen burner, and a beaker C) a graduated cylinder and a balance D) a microscope, beaker, and eye dropper
C) a graduated cylinder and a balance
A test given at the end of a unit on weather and climate is an example of: A) a self-assessment. B) a performance assessment. C) a summative assessment. D) a formative assessment.
C) a summative assessment.
Which of the following refers to the amount of light emitted by a star? A) differentiation B) temperature C) absolute magnitude D) composition
C) absolute magnitude
All living organisms are classified into one of the six kingdoms used in the modern-day classification system. The kingdoms are: A) worms, fishes, birds, reptiles, amphibians, mammals. B) atoms, cells, tissues, organs, organ systems, organisms. C) animals, plants, fungi, protists, eubacteria, archaebacteria. D) classes, phyla, orders, families, genus, species.
C) animals, plants, fungi, protists, eubacteria, archaebacteria.
Which of the following activities will best allow students to self-identify their misconceptions? A) studying a list of frequently asked questions with the students. B) making a T-chart of the pros and cons of their idea C) applying the scientific method to an idea in class and designing an experiment D) drawing an illustration of their idea and labeling key parts
C) applying the scientific method to an idea in class and designing an experiment
Which type of graph or chart would be best used to show the breakdown of coat colors in a rabbit population? A) bar graph B) line graph C) circle graph D) histogram
C) circle graph
Fifth-grade students are working on an experiment and writing down their discoveries. Which of the following should the teacher be doing as the students work on the experiment? A) conducting a demonstration as instruction B) presenting situations and posing questions C) coaching and guiding children as needed D) grading papers previously turned in
C) coaching and guiding children as needed
Which of the following is an example of a positive feedback system? A) using a thermostat to regulate house temperature B) blood glucose regulation C) contractions during labor and childbirth D) body temperature regulation
C) contractions during labor and childbirth
A year on Earth is approximately 365 days, while a year on Venus takes about 224 Earth days, and a year on Mars takes about 687 Earth days. What causes the number of days in a year on each of these planets to differ from one another? A) different climates B) different shapes C) different distances D) different compositions
C) different distances
Researchers have conducted studies on effective teaching methods. Hands-on learning allows students to experience and apply learned knowledge. Which approach is best for teaching the dissection of a frog? A) computer-based dissection B) cutting out a diagram of a paper frog C) dissection of a preserved frog in small groups D) teacher demonstration
C) dissection of a preserved frog in small groups
The 5E Model of Instruction is routinely recommended as one of the best practices in science classrooms. Which of these E's is generally the first step of the lesson cycle? A) evaluate B) explain C) engage D) elaborate
C) engage
A school's PTA volunteered to make outside improvements to the school. A pile of sand and river rock was delivered to the school for the repair of the playground. After a week of rain, the river rock was still piled high, but the sand was no longer in a pile. What could have happened to the sand? A) sedimentation B) weathering C) erosion D) evaporation
C) erosion
When students are conducting an experiment or investigation using glassware, which of the following is the most important piece of safety equipment for them to use? A) ear coverings B) fire extinguisher C) goggles D) body shower and eyewash station
C) goggles
Mr. Harris has several English-language learners in his classroom. He is currently teaching a unit about pH balance. Which of the following activities will be most effective in engaging Mr. Harris' English-language learners in a lesson? A) providing articles about what pH is and how it affects chemical mixtures B) listening to a local scientific research talk about the importance of pH during experimentations C) having students measure the pH balance of chemicals before and after mixtures D) telling a funny story about a pH experiment
C) having students measure the pH balance of chemicals before and after mixtures
Freshwater is a limited resource that is needed to sustain much of life on Earth. Which of the following reduces the availability of fresh drinking water for humans and animals? A) increased desalination of ocean water B) increased melting of glaciers and ice caps C) increased crop irrigation D) increased nitrogen pollution in oceans
C) increased crop irrigation
You know that your height is 5 ft 3 in. A friend measures you three times and gets these results: 5 ft 10 in, 5 ft 9.5 in, and 5 ft 10.5 in. How can these measurements be explained? A) low accuracy, low precision B) high accuracy, high precision C) low accuracy, high precision D) high accuracy, low precision
C) low accuracy, high precision
A group of students want to find out the specific temperature at which chocolate will begin to melt. To determine the correct temperature, the students would rely on which science processing skill? A) classifying B) inferring C) measuring D) predicting
C) measuring
When reading the volume of a liquid in a test tube, data measurements should always be taken from where? A) data ridge B) sample curve C) meniscus D) event horizon
C) meniscus
Which is the most appropriate unit to measure length of the average football field? A) inches B) millimeters C) meters D) miles
C) meters
Density is measured by using the formula mass/volume. In addition to a scale, which of these tools would be helpful in finding the density of a regular-shaped, solid object? A) thermometer B) erlenmeyer flask C) metric ruler D) barometer
C) metric ruler
Which organelle is responsible for breaking down glucose into energy for the cell? A) chloroplast B) ribosome C) mitochondrion D) nucleus
C) mitochondrion
A student measures the volume of 12.8 ml of liquid with a graduated cylinder, checking the measurement three times to obtain volumes of 13.2 ml, 13.2 ml, and 13.1 ml. The student's measurements are: A) neither accurate nor precise. B) accurate but not precise. C) precise but not accurate. D) both precise and accurate.
C) precise but not accurate.
Casey is building a treehouse in his backyard. He works on it every day with all of his friends. Casey has little interest in science until Mrs. Baker teaches simple machines, and uses Casey's construction project as an example for how pulleys make lifting the building materials much easier. What process does Mrs. Baker use to encourage Casey's love for science? A) summative assessment of what was learned B) pre-assessment to check what is already known C) real-world situations for application D) an assigned book report about simple machines
C) real-world situations for application
A scientist is performing an experiment to determine the conductivity of a specific substance. Which of the following actions would increase the reliability of the results? A) using a variety of materials to test the conductivity of the substance B) testing multiple substances C) recording the results of repeated experiments D) predicting the outcome of the experiment
C) recording the results of repeated experiments
Traditionally, most elementary questions asked during instruction and assessment are at the recall level. Which level of Bloom's Taxonomy encourages the learner to think at the highest level? A) comprehension (understanding) B) knowledge (remembering) C) synthesis (creating) D) evaluation (evaluating)
C) synthesis (creating)
When deciding to house a live animal in the classroom, the risk of a potential health hazard to the student or animal must be weighed against the educational value added. What guidelines must first be considered to address this potential hazard, prior to making a choice of getting the animal for the classroom? A) plans for food, housing and comfort of the animal B) procedures for caring for the animal during weekends and holidays C) the children that might be affected by allergic symptoms D) standards for keeping the conditions sanitary and odor free
C) the children that might be affected by allergic symptoms
The tilt of the Earth causes. . . A) the tides. B) magnetic fields. C) the seasons. D) gravitational attraction.
C) the seasons.
Which one of the following tools would be most appropriate to measure the velocity and acceleration of a toy car in a lab activity? A) spring scale B) metric ruler C) ticker timer D) stopwatch
C) ticker timer
Which of the following is the best way to use data collected from pre-assessment activities? A) to isolate the top five students so they can be peer tutors B) to document the lack of knowledge, for teacher accountability C) to drive instruction D) to compare the knowledge of one class to another
C) to drive instruction
The gravitational force from the sun extends: A) only to the core of the Earth. B) only to the edge of the Solar System. C) to infinity D) only to the edge of the Milky Way Galaxy.
C) to infinity
During part of a lab activity, students need to let a solution evaporate to see if any solutes are left behind. Which of the following tools would be most appropriate for this purpose? A) graduated cylinder B) round-bottom flask C) watch glass D) test tube
C) watch glass
a summary of the results of an experiment; states whether the initial hypothesis was rejected or supported
Conclusion
Fourth phase of 5E model. students extend their thinking and practice new skills.
Elaborate
a group of specimens in an experiment to which no change is made; does not receive the experimental treatment
Control Group
a variable which is kept stable throughout the experiment, across control and experimental groups
Controlled Variable
type of non-experimental investigation in which the researcher may study two variables, but does not control the rest of the conditions of the study
Correlation Research
A pool empties at a rate of 12 quarts every 2 minutes. How many hours and minutes will it take to completely empty the pool which contains 12,000 gallons? (1 gallon = 4 quarts) A) 66 hours and 40 minutes B) 16 hours and 40 minutes C) 33 hours and 20 minutes D) 133 hours and 20 minutes
D) 133 hours and 20 minutes
Which of the following accurately summarizes the difference between a hypothesis, a scientific theory, and a scientific law? A) A hypothesis is a proposed explanation based on evidence, a theory is a documented explanation for a phenomenon, and a law is a predicted outcome. B) A hypothesis is a documented explanation for a phenomenon, a theory is a predicted outcome, and a law is a proposed explanation based on evidence. C) A hypothesis is a predicted outcome, a theory is a documented explanation for a phenomenon, and a law is a proposed explanation based on evidence. D) A hypothesis is a predicted outcome, a theory is a proposed explanation based on evidence, and a law is a documented description of observations surrounding a phenomenon.
D) A hypothesis is a predicted outcome, a theory is a proposed explanation based on evidence, and a law is a documented description of observations surrounding a phenomenon.
When asked to list sources of error in an experiment, a majority of Mr. Crone's fifth-grade students included "human error" and "calculator error". What is their most likely misunderstanding about sources of error in an experiment? A) Students think error in measurement is a mistake made by the measurer. B) Students think that a digital display has no margin of error. C) Students think that electronic equipment always measures exactly. D) All of the above are commonly misunderstood by students.
D) All of the above are commonly misunderstood by students.
Of the following, which is a statement of Newton's second law of motion? A) The force of gravity between two objects depends on their masses and the distance between them. B) For every force on one object by a second, there is an equal and oppositely direct force on the second object by the first. C) An object's kinetic energy depends on its mass and speed. D) An object's acceleration depends on its mass and the net force acting on the object.
D) An object's acceleration depends on its mass and the net force acting on the object.
Which of the following is true about the carbon cycle? A) Carbon may be released into the atmosphere through photosynthesis. B) Bacteria remove carbon from the atmosphere while decaying organisms. C) Carbon may become compressed under the weight of many layers of the Earth, rendering it useless to humans. D) Carbon may become part of sedimentary rock and enter the rock cycle.
D) Carbon may become part of sedimentary rock and enter the rock cycle.
Which of the following is the basic structure of every living organism? A) organs B) organ systems C) tissue D) cells
D) Cells
A teacher is teaching a unit on weather to the class. As a demonstration, the teacher heats a beaker on a hot plate and adds blue food coloring to the water. The students observe the movement of coloring in the water. Which of the following processes is best demonstrated by the movement of the food coloring? A) conduction B) evaporation C) radiation D) convection
D) Convection
Sally would like to measure the volume of liquid water produced by a reaction. Which of the following tools would be most appropriate for her to use? A) Triple beam balance B) Beaker C) Metric ruler D) Graduated cylinder
D) Graduated cylinder
Which of the following is a main benefit of using inquiry-based learning in the classroom? A) Inquiry-based learning requires less planning by the teacher. B) Inquiry-based learning is more fun for the students. C) Inquiry-based learning activities are easier to grade. D) Inquiry-based learning encourages students' scientific inquiry and develops their skills using the scientific method.
D) Inquiry-based learning encourages students' scientific inquiry and develops their skills using the scientific method.
Why is it important for scientists around the world to adhere to the same system of measurement? A) The metric system does not relate to real life, so it is easier to use for conceptual purposes. B) The imperial system of measurement is inaccurate. C) The results of experiments are more likely to support hypotheses. D) It allows for easier and more consistent communication of results.
D) It allows for easier and more consistent communication of results.
Mr. Orlando is on the far side of the room when he sees a student mishandling equipment during a laboratory activity. Which of the following is the best first step Mr. Orlando should take to resolve the problem? A) Immediately tell the student to handle the equipment with care, using a loud voice so the student will hear across the room. B) Loudly call out the student's name. C) Do nothing at that time, but write a report about it to give to the principal. D) Move closer to the student.
D) Move closer to the student.
Which of the following scientists is particularly noted for his or her contribution to atomic theory? A) Louis Pasteur B) Dmitri Mendeleev C) Marie Curie D) Niels Bohr
D) Niels Bohr
Billy and Sally perform the same experiment ten times to observe if variations occur in the results from the experiment. After they perform the experiment ten times, they notice a large variance of results, but they hypothesized a small variance in results. When they discuss the experiment with their teacher, the teacher directs them to identify any deviations from the original experimental procedure. Which of the following best describes the benefit of the teacher's directions? A) The task helps Billy and Sally build communication and inquiry skills into experimental procedure. B) The task forces Billy and Sally to revisit their original hypothesis. C) The task keeps Billy and Sally engaged until the end of class. D) The task helps Billy and Sally connect deviation in procedure to variance in results.
D) The task helps Billy and Sally connect deviation in procedure to variance in results.
Which is the best way to help elementary students learn the scientific method? A) Teach a unit on the scientific method including explicit, ordered instruction followed by small experiments that highlight each part of the method. B) Read about how real scientists made discoveries by incorporating the scientific method in their work. C) Assign a month-long investigation that requires the students to use each part of the scientific method, in order. D) Use ideas from the scientific method, with explicit instruction, in all investigations throughout the year.
D) Use ideas from the scientific method, with explicit instruction, in all investigations throughout the year.
Which of the following geological processes is most likely to move rock from below the surface of the Earth to the surface? A) tectonic shifting B) weathering C) the water cycle D) volcanic activity
D) Volcanic Activity
Cattle egrets are birds that live near cattle because as the cattle graze, insects in the ground are stirred up to the surface. When the insects are stirred to the surface, the birds eat the insects. The cattle are unaffected by the birds or the insects. This relationship between the cattle egrets and the cattle can best be described as: A) predation. B) parasitism. C) mutualism. D) commensalism.
D) commensalism.
Which of the following substances would be safest for use in a fifth-grade science experiment? A) liquid nitrogen B) dry ice C) bleach D) dish soap
D) dish soap
Samuel rides his bike around the park and over to the pond, and then back to where he started. Which is greater: the distance he traveled or his displacement? A) The distance and the displacement are the same. B) It is impossible to tell from the information given. C) displacement D) distance
D) distance
Cara would like to research the effects of plants on students' self-reported stress levels. She places potted plants in student common areas for two weeks, taking surveys before and after. She then makes a graph of her findings. Which parts of the scientific method is Cara performing? A) communicating data and designing a new experiment B) observation and data analysis C) hypothesis and observation D) experimentation and data analysis
D) experimentation and data analysis
Which of the following is the appropriate piece of safety equipment to use if chemicals are splashed in someone's eye? A) fire extinguisher B) sink C) safety shower D) eyewash station
D) eyewash station
When determining the accurate measurement of a liquid, which piece of laboratory equipment would be best to find the liquid's volume to the nearest milliliter? A) ruler B) triple beam balance C) beaker D) graduated cylinder
D) graduated cylinder
Which is the most appropriate unit to measure the height of the average adult human? A) kilometers B) millimeters C) miles D) inches
D) inches
Which of the following is the best way to engage students from diverse cultural backgrounds in the practices of science? A) include mainly science lessons that are published by science supply companies B) teach science topics that are the focus of a science textbook, because that is what each student needs to know C) utilize science lessons that mimic high school science topics to prepare students for the upper grades D) incorporate science lessons that develop from the actual experiences of students in their culture
D) incorporate science lessons that develop from the actual experiences of students in their culture
Which of the following units represents the shortest distance? A) millimeter B) kilometer C) parsec D) nanometer
D) nanometer
What period of time can be measured by roughly one revolution of the moon around the Earth? A) one decade B) one day C) one year D) one month
D) one month
A scientist is performing an experiment to determine the conductivity of a specific substance. Which of the following actions would increase the reliability of the results? A) testing multiple substances B) predicting the outcome of the experiment C) using a variety of materials to test the conductivity of the substance D) recording the results of repeated experiments
D) recording the results of repeated experiments
Mrs. Alexander wants to introduce her fifth-grade students to the process of classification. Which of the following activities would best accomplish this goal? A) modeling the lunar cycle using a three-dimensional solar system model B) writing down the stages of a butterfly by watching a classroom caterpillar turn itself into a butterfly C) measuring the time it takes for a ball to roll down an incline when placed at varying heights D) sorting a collection of objects into metals and nonmetals and then further sorting the metals into magnetic or nonmagnetic
D) sorting a collection of objects into metals and nonmetals and then further sorting the metals into magnetic or nonmagnetic
Mrs. Campbell, a third-grade science teacher, is teaching conservation practices. What can her class do to demonstrate they have learned to make informed choices, based on the needs of the environment? A) collect food for a local food bank B) sell candy to make money for library books C) make anti-littering posters D) start a paper and plastic recycling program
D) start a paper and plastic recycling program
A liquid is heated to its boiling point temperature. If further heat is added to the liquid it will: A) increase in temperature but remain a liquid. B) decrease in temperature until all of the liquid has evaporated. C) increase in temperature as the liquid evaporates. D) stay at its boiling point temperature until all of the liquid has evaporated.
D) stay at its boiling point temperature until all of the liquid has evaporated.
Students perform an investigation to compare the relative specific heats of sand, water, and soil. They fill plastic cups with the same mass of each material, place a temperature probe in each sample, and put the samples the same distance beneath identical flood lamps. Students record temperature data for 2 minutes while the lamps are on, and continue recording data for 1 minute after the lamps are turned off. Which of the following is the dependent variable in this experiment? A) the amount of time the lamps are turned on and off B) the different materials C) the mass of the materials D) the change in temperature of the materials
D) the change in temperature of the materials
What must a scientist consider when deciding which tools to use to gather data? A) the volume of the reactants B) the weight of the tools C) previous investigations' ingredients D) the expected outcome of the investigation
D) the expected outcome of the investigation
Of the choices listed, which is the best analogy for voltage in a circuit? A) security screening at the airport B) parts moving through an assembly line on a conveyor belt C) a tunnel through which wind can blow D) the height difference between the top and bottom of a hill
D) the height difference between the top and bottom of a hill
Michelle pours lemonade powder into a cup of ice and water. She stirs it with a spoon to mix up the powder more quickly. What is the solvent? A) the lemonade powder B) the spoon C) the frozen ice D) the liquid water
D) the liquid water
Which of the following is a widely-accepted explanation that is supported by observational evidence and experimental confirmation? A) prediction B) hypothesis C) conclusion D) theory
D) theory
A yellow pea plant with a Yy genotype has which of the following? A) no alleles B) one allele; Yy C) one allele; yellow D) two different alleles; Y and y
D) two different alleles; Y and y
An air mass that originates over a large body of water near the equator is most likely to be described as: A) cold and dry. B) warm and dry. C) cold and humid. D) warm and humid.
D) warm and humid.
What powers the ocean's surface currents? A) temperature variations in the ocean, plastics pollution, and the movement of the tides B) atmospheric pressure, geothermal vents, and the gravitational pull of the moon C) the path of watercraft, the migration patterns of marine organisms, and wind currents D) wind currents, the uneven heating of Earth's surface, and the shape of landforms on Earth
D) wind currents, the uneven heating of Earth's surface, and the shape of landforms on Earth
measurements and observations recorded during an experiment
Data
an organized way to display data that presents the results in labeled rows and columns
Data Table
a variable which is measured by the scientist conducting the experiment
Dependent Variable
a variety of strategies and practices that address all students' learning styles, learning levels, and interests
Differentiation
a number that shows the size or amount of something
Measurement
First phase of 5E model. students become mentally engaged, make connections to previous learning, and think about their own learning outcomes.
Engage
Students who are learning the English language, or for whom English is not a first language
English Language Learners
a system of measurement used in the United States using units such as feet, pounds and ounces
English system / Imperial system
Final (fifth) phase of 5E model. students are assessed on their understanding and teachers evaluate learning to inform their next lesson.
Evaluate
using educational research to design lessons
Evidence-Based Science Instruction
a group of specimens in an experiment to which a change is made; receives the experimental treatment
Experimental Group
Researchers assign subjects in the sample to certain treatments, then observe the effects of the treatment. Can show causation (cause and effect).
Experimental Investigation
Third phase of 5E model. students explain what they know and verbalize their understanding. Teachers use this phase to formally define terms and explain processe
Explain
the process of teaching by communicating clear expectations and giving specific feedback to students
Explicit teaching
Second phase of 5E model. students work with the material, developing their knowledge, and usually actively manipulating materials or interactive content.
Explore
a series of experiments in which the results lead to more possible hypotheses and subsequently more testing
Feedback Loop
a usually post-instruction assessment with the purpose of assessing student knowledge, retention, and application. Often involve the use of a standardized rubric or scoring guide based on several criteria.
Formal Assessments
assessment for learning. Usually mid-instruction assessment with the purpose of assessing student progress and informing the teacher so instruction can be altered as needed.
Formative Assessments
the downward curve on the surface of a liquid caused by the adhesion of the liquid on the glassware
Meniscus
The accepted astronomical model that the sun is at the center of our solar system. The theory was put forth by Copernicus in 1543 and expanded upon by Galileo in 1632
Heliocentricity
a visual representation of data, similar to a bar graph, which compares frequencies of different occurrences
Histogram
an informed prediction (made based on previous observations) for a phenomena. Should be testable.
Hypothesis
a variable which is manipulated by the scientist conducting the experiment
Independent Variable
a conclusion based on evidence, observation, and reasoning
Inference
More flexible than formal assessments and can be adjusted to fit the situation and particular needs of the student being tested
Informal Assessments
activities that allow students to participate in the scientific method with little guidance from the teacher
Inquiry-Based Activities
a system of measurement used throughout the world
International System of Units (SI) / The Metric System
a visual representation of data which shows change over time or in response to a manipulated variable
Line Graph
the base metric unit of volume
Liters
deviation or variation of a value from the correct or expected value to allow for error in equipment or calculations
Margin of Error
a standardized information sheet for a substance; includes information about health risks, safe disposal and cleanup of spills, and environmental risks
Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
information gathered using the five senses
Observation
a graph in which a circle is divided into sectors that each represent a proportion of the whole. Pie charts are helpful when displaying the relative distribution of categories.
Pie Chart
the process of fact-checking by other experts in the same field; ensures the quality of published work
Peer-review
a set of different values which are close to one another
Precise
a way of determining/discussing what level of accuracy is possible based on the tools used
Precision
material produced by the student to demonstrate content mastery
Product
A statement that two ratios are equivalent.
Proportion
data which is described rather than measured
Qualitative Data
data which is measured and usually expressed numerically
Quantitative Data
scientific fact discovered using the scientific method
Scientific Knowledge
a proven explanation for a phenomenon
Scientific Law
a series of deliberate steps by which scientists observe, hypothesize, test, analyze data, and communicate results
Scientific Method
a proposed explanation for a phenomenon which may not be testable
Scientific Theory
assessment of learning. Given at specific points in time in order to determine what students know and don't know. Summative assessments are generally formal.
Summative Assessment
to set a balance equal to zero to ensure an accurate measurement with no contaminants
Tare
the amount of measurement error that is allowed
Tolerance
factors affecting the outcome of an experimental investigation
Variables
Wave the air toward the face. The safe way to smell a test tube.
Waft
the base metric unit of mass
gram (g)