High School Benchmarks: The Role of Theories, Laws, Hypotheses and Models

BENCHMARK CODE

BENCHMARK

 

SC.912.N.3.1

Explain that a scientific theory is the culmination of many scientific investigations drawing together all the current evidence concerning a substantial range of phenomena; thus, a scientific theory represents the most powerful explanation scientists have to offer.

Cognitive Complexity/Depth of Knowledge Rating: High

 

SC.912.N.3.2

Describe the role consensus plays in the historical development of a theory in any one of the disciplines of science.

Cognitive Complexity/Depth of Knowledge Rating: Moderate

 

SC.912.N.3.3

Explain that scientific laws are descriptions of specific relationships under given conditions in nature, but do not offer explanations for those relationships.

Cognitive Complexity/Depth of Knowledge Rating: Moderate

 

SC.912.N.3.4

Recognize that theories do not become laws, nor do laws become theories; theories are well supported explanations and laws are well supported descriptions.

Cognitive Complexity/Depth of Knowledge Rating: Moderate

 

SC.912.N.3.5

Describe the function of models in science, and identify the wide range of models used in science.

Cognitive Complexity/Depth of Knowledge Rating: Moderate

Share