Scientific Explanations
CLAIM EVIDENCE REASONING
Scientific Explanations
Why do we have to write them?
●
To help you better understand scientific ideas
●
To apply concepts learned in class to real world problem
solving
The MOdel: HOw do you explain the explanation?
claim
Claim- an arguable statement
The claim is what you know, think to be true and will later
on back up with evidence.
Example: Air is matter
evidence
Evidence- supporting your claim
The evidence is the real proof you use to backup your claim.
Example: The more air you pump into a ball the heavier it
becomes. Proven by data (insert mass measurement from triple
beam balance)
Reasoning
Reasoning- how the evidence supports the claim.
The reasoning is the short explanation of how the claim and
evidence work together.
Example: This shows that air has mass, one of the
characteristics of matter.
Summary
Claim: What is this about?
Evidence: What do you need to show to make them understand?
Reasoning: What does the evidence mean? Justification that
links the claim and evidence.
Take it one step further: Mention negative or false evidence
and reasons why it does not support the claim.
CER Rubrichttps://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1oOtuHgaK1_E6qYHVNtEUBQVD7JUJgeyw3vM3uCS