What explains the result?
A law summarizes a consistent relationship; a theory explains a broad set of observations. One does not turn into the other.
Scientific method / Theory vs. law / Dedicated lab room
SCIENTIFIC METHOD · GRADES 7–12
Model, pattern, or explanation?
INVESTIGATION QUESTIONHow do observations support a law and a scientific theory differently?
● ILLUSTRATIVE SCIENCE MODEL
ENGLISH CAPTIONS
Read the statement describing a repeatable pattern in system behavior.
0.0 / 3.0 s
Where does this matter?
Models and theories help explain gas behavior, ecosystems, and many other systems.
What should you keep in mind?
The three score levels describe an instructional model, not how science ranks theories.
DEDICATED PRACTICE ROOM · SCIENTIFIC METHOD
Model, pattern, or explanation?
YOUR TASK
How do observations support a law and a scientific theory differently?
READ THE BENCH CARD
Classify descriptions, explanations, and predictions
Sort a pattern description, a tested explanation, and a testable prediction by the work each statement does. The three score levels describe an instructional model, not how science ranks theories.
MATERIALS / DATAPressure model · Particle cards · Evidence board
SCIENCE CLAIM FILE · CARD 1 / 3A repeated pattern describes how an object’s speed changes when a net force acts.
Classify what kind of scientific statement this is. A law describes a recurring pattern; a theory explains evidence; a hypothesis is a testable prediction.
WHAT TO TAKE AWAY
A law summarizes a consistent relationship; a theory explains a broad set of observations. One does not turn into the other.
WHERE THIS IS USED
Models and theories help explain gas behavior, ecosystems, and many other systems.
MODEL LIMIT The three score levels describe an instructional model, not how science ranks theories. The activities on this page do not store classroom measurements.
