Science Literacy Flashcards

A student conducts an experiment testing how fertilizer amount affects plant height. The dependent variable is:

Answer: The height of the plant at the end of the experiment

The dependent variable is what is measured as an outcome; plant height changes in response to the independent variable (fertilizer amount).

What does it mean if experimental data has high accuracy but low precision?

Answer: Measurements are near the true value but spread widely around it

High accuracy means values are close to the true value on average, but low precision means individual measurements are spread out rather than clustered.

Which of the following is the best example of using science literacy to evaluate a food label claim?

Answer: Looking up independent nutritional research to verify the claim

Science literacy means seeking independent, evidence-based information rather than accepting marketing claims at face value.

A graph shows a positive correlation between hours of exercise per week and average test scores. Which statement is most scientifically cautious?

Answer: There may be a relationship between exercise and scores, but causation is not established

A correlation shows a relationship but does not prove that one variable causes the other; additional controlled experiments are needed to establish causation.

Which of the following is an example of a scientific law?

Answer: Newton's law of universal gravitation

Newton's law of universal gravitation is a scientific law that describes a consistent, observed pattern in nature through a mathematical relationship.

Why is sample size important in a scientific study?

Answer: Larger samples reduce the influence of chance and make results more generalizable

Larger sample sizes reduce the impact of random variation and increase the likelihood that findings can be applied to the broader population.

A student reads that scientists 'disagree' about climate change. What is the most science-literate response to this claim?

Answer: Check the degree of scientific consensus using peer-reviewed sources and major scientific organizations

Science literacy means consulting authoritative, peer-reviewed sources and understanding that a strong scientific consensus (97%+ of climate scientists) exists on human-caused climate change.