1.3 representing data - pioneer science

Unit 1 Lesson 3 Representing Data

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Florida Benchmarks


•  SC.7.N.1.1 Define a problem from the seventh grade curriculum, use appropriate reference materials to support scientific understanding, plan and carry out scientific investigation of various types, such as systematic observations of experiments, identify variables, collect and organize data, interpret data in charts, tables, and graphics, analyze information, make predictions, and defend conclusions.


Florida Benchmarks


•  SC.7.N.1.5 Describe the methods used in the pursuit of a scientific explanation as seen in different fields of science such as biology, geology, and physics.

•  SC.7.N.3.2 Identify the benefits and limitations of

the use of scientific models. •  MA.6.S.6.2 Select and analyze the measures of

central tendency or variability to represent, describe, analyze, and/or summarize a data set for the purposes of answering questions appropriately.


Florida Benchmarks


•  MA.6.A.3.6 Construct and analyze tables, graphs, and equations to describe linear functions and other simple relations using both common language and algebraic notation.

•  LA.6.4.2.2 The student will record information

(e.g., observations, notes, lists, charts, legends) related to a topic, including visual aids to organize and record information and include a list of sources used.

Get Organized!


How do scientists make sense of data?

•  Scientific investigations involve the collection of data in the form of facts, figures, and other evidence.

•  The more data a scientist collects, the greater the

need for the data to be organized in some way.



•  Data tables are one of many ways scientists organize their data.

•  Scientists often use data tables to organize and record many observations and measurements.

•  Data tables show information grouped in columns

and rows. Units of measurement are shown in the column headings.




•  Scientists use different types of graphs for analyzing patterns and trends.

•  The type of graph depends on the data they

collected and the relationship being studied. •  Circle graphs are ideal for showing data that are

parts of a whole.




•  Each part of a circle graph represents a percentage of the whole circle.



Circle Up!


What do graphs show?

•  Circle graphs are used to show how each group of data relates to all the data.

•  Bar graphs are used to compare data in a number

of categories. •  Line graphs are used to show changes in variables

over time.


Test Drive the New Model


How do scientists evaluate models?

•  A scientific model can be a visual or mathematical representation of an object or system.

•  Models are useful for showing things that are too

small, too large, or too complex to see easily.



•  This plant cell model shows the parts of the cell more clearly than they can be seen under a microscope.




•  Scientists use models in many ways. •  Scientists can use models to make predictions

before an investigation and to represent results after an investigation.

•  To use a model wisely, scientists must evaluate a

model’s strengths and limitations.




•  A model can be evaluated by how much it can explain.

•  Models can be simple or complex and can be

made of any material. •  The important thing is for a model to be a good

representation of the real object or system.




•  A model can be evaluated by how well it can adapt.

•  A good model that is based on evidence can even

help scientists discover new information. •  For example, when scientists built a model of

DNA, they learned more about how genetic information is transmitted.




•  A model can be evaluated by how many limitations it has.

•  Scientists can choose to use models that provide

more information about certain things. •  Sometimes, new data do not fit the model made

by scientists. •  Scientists must identify the ways in which a model

does not match the real object or system.



1.3 representing data - pioneer science

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