Building a Scientific Argument

What You'll Learn

Scientific arguments require a claim, evidence, and reasoning. The claim states what you believe, evidence provides data supporting it, and reasoning explains how the evidence supports the claim.

Key Words

evidence
model
prototype

Materials Needed

pennies
plastic wrap
cardboard
tape

Safety First

Do not taste any materials.
Wear safety goggles when mixing liquids.
Wash hands after handling materials.

Steps

Step 1 — Read

Read and learn: Scientific arguments require a claim, evidence, and reasoning. The claim states what you believe, evidence provides data supporting it, and reasoning explains how the evidence supports the claim.

Step 2 — Do

Build your model using the materials provided.

Step 3 — Observe

Look for patterns in your observations.

Step 4 — Record

Make a graph or chart showing your results.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 3

What does a prism do to white light?