Practice 6: Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
Constructing Explanations |
In science, explanations are constructing through the following process:
> A question is posed. > Different ideas are proposed as hypotheses (plausible explanations) to answer the question. > These ideas are tested experimentally. > Evidence from the experiments is evaluated to determine whether or not it supports the idea. > If the evidence does not support the idea, the scientist must start again with a different idea. > If the evidence does support the idea, it can then lead to a theory that can be used to explain some natural phenomena. |
Design Process |
Similarly, the design process follows a sequence to meet a need or construct a solution. > Identify a problem to be solved or a need to be fulfilled. > Design a solution that addresses this need or problem. > Create and test the solution. > Evaluate the solution. > Based on the evaluation of data acquired when the solution is being tested, the initial design may be further refined and improved. |
Challenges I Might Have Using Evidence |
Use evidence to support their ideas.
> Students want to rely on their own opinions and have difficulty using sufficient evidence. Explain why their evidence supports their ideas. > Students have difficulty articulating the link between their ideas and supporting evidence. Consider multiple explanations. > Students tend to focus on only one idea. Revising explanations and solutions based on new evidence or scientific knowledge. > Students have a hard time abandoning their original ideas. |
How Can I Create Awesome Questions/ Problems? |
For students to construct explanations or design solutions, they must start with a compelling question or problem. To develop a compelling question/ problem you must:
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What Do I Look For In Explanations and Solutions? |
> The claim (proposed explanation or solution)
> Supporting evidence, including evidence or reproducibility and of repeated trials > Reasoning behind hoe the evidence supports a claim |
Jedi Masters of This Goal Can: |
> Construct your own explanations based on your knowledge, models, and evidence.
> Use scientific evidence to support, refine, or refute explanations, to identify gaps in proposed explanations. > Solve design problems through undertaking a design process. > Construct or test a design solution. > Evaluate and critique competing solutions. |