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All for Science™Curriculum UnitsInvestigating Producers in EcosystemsDay 12: What Is Scientific Evidence?

Day 12: What Is Scientific Evidence?

STANDARDS OVERVIEW

Reading Strategy:

Learners synthesize all inquiry statements into one statement.

Science Concept:

Scientists rely on evidence to support claims and to explain things. When an investigation is complete, scientists examine the details of their data carefully to look for information that will help them explain the results.

Reading TEKS:

ELA.3.6.H

Science TEKS:

2018–19: 3.2D, 3.2F; 2024–25: 3.2B, 3.3B

NGSS:

3-LS4-1

CCSS:

W.3.2, SL.3.2

Science and Literacy Connection:

After concluding research and investigations, scientists synthesize all the information or data in a manner that will make sense to others.

Science Language:

  • A claim is a statement of what you think is true based on observation and evidence.
  • Evidence is data collected from the investigation that supports (backs up) explanations and answers.
  • Data are facts and information (such as images, words, and measurements) collected during an investigation.
  • Reasoning means thinking about and explaining how the evidence supports a claim.

  • Mini-Lesson

    OVERVIEW

    You may have teams who wrote their first synthesis statement yesterday and are ready to continue writing synthesis statements for their remaining inquiry questions. You might also have teams who have written all of their synthesis statements.

     

    PROCEDURE

    Team who have answered all their inquiry questions might create one synthesis statement that combines all of their findings on their Inquiry Chart into an overarching synthesis statement about their ecosystem. Use this time to support teams as needed.

     

    The class Inquiry Chart should be posted for learners to reference as they write their own synthesis statements.

  • Inquiry Circles

    OVERVIEW

    Materials for the Inquiry Circles:

    Each team member needs:

    • science notebook
    • pencil

     

    Each team needs:

    • team Inquiry Chart

     

    Teacher needs:

    • class Inquiry Chart (pond ecosystem)

    PROCEDURE

  • Guided Science Investigation

    Materials for the Guided Science Investigation:

    Each team member needs:

    • science notebook
    • pencil

     

    Each team needs:

    • Team CER Chart
    • Team Data Log

    Teacher needs:

    • “Data Log Example” sheet
    • “CER Chart Example” sheet
    • “Shades of Green” color chart
    • “Algae in a Bottle” image

     

    SETUP

    • Prepare to project the “Algae in a Bottle” image, the “Data Log Example” sheet, and the “CER Chart Example” sheet for the class to see. Note: Teacher has the option of either projecting these documents or making color copies for learners to look at during the discussion.

     

    SAFETY

    Remind learners to follow safety rules for making observations on their sample.

     

    DAILY OBSERVATIONS

    Today will mark the final day of making observations and documenting information. Allow 5–10 minutes for learners to observe their samples and record data/information on the Team Data Logs in their science notebooks. Teachers may choose what part of the day the observations will be done, as long as they are completed today.

    PROCEDURE

  • Expanded Standards

    Reading TEKS:

    ELA.3.6H: Listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking using multiple texts. The student uses metacognitive skills to both develop and deepen comprehension of increasingly complex texts. The student is expected to: (H) synthesize information to create new understanding.

    NGSS:

    3-LS4-1: analyze and interpret data to make sense of phenomena using logical reasoning. 3-LS4-3: construct an argument with evidence.

    CCSS:

    W.3.2: write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly. SL.3.2: determine the main ideas and supporting details of a text read aloud or information presented in diverse media and formats, including visually, quantitatively, and orally.

    Science TEKS:

    2018–19: 3.2D: analyze and interpret patterns in data to construct reasonable explanations based on evidence from investigations. 3.2F: communicate valid conclusions supported by data in writing, by drawing pictures, and through verbal discussion.

    2024–25: 3.2B: analyze data by identifying any significant features, patterns, or sources of error.  3.3B: communicate explanations and solutions individually and collaboratively in a variety of settings and formats.

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