Activities

1. What is a scientific model, and what is its purpose?
   
   
2. Identify a scientific model that can be found in your classroom.

3. Explain how the scientific model found in your classroom (question 2 above) helps scientists make predictions.
   
   
4. Describe a computer model and how it helps scientists make predictions.

5. Why do scientists make models to study atoms? What insight are they able to gain from using models?
   
   
6. Why do scientists make models of ecosystems? What insight are they able to gain from using these models?

Answer Key/Rubric

1. A scientific model can be a diagram, physical representation, computer simulation, etc. Its purpose is to help scientists gain additional knowledge on a subject they are studying. Models also help gain information on subjects that are too large, too small, too fast or too slow to observe easily.
   
   
2. Acceptable responses may include, but are not limited to: globe, solar system model, poster of a diagram (such as of cells, food chains, etc.)
   
   
3. Acceptable responses may include, but are not limited to:

• Globe      -   Visual representation of cities, states, countries, continents
                    -   May help visualize weather patterns, animal species distribution, etc.
  
  
• Solar System model         -     Visualize order and appearance of planets
                                                    -     Make predictions about planet’s composition
  
  *NOTE: models are generally not a good indication of the planet’s sizes and distance from each other since the sun is so large in comparison to the planets and distances are too vast and are not consistent 
  
  
• Poster (cell)     -      Visualize components of a cell, especially since it is microscopic
                                -     Make predictions about cellular diseases, illnesses

4. Acceptable responses must include explanation of a scientific model and how it helps scientists.

Sample response: Doppler Radar tracks the velocity of storm systems and precipitation. Meteorologists analyze this data to track where clouds and precipitation currently are, how fast its moving, whether it is gaining or losing intensity. They then use this data to predict future weather conditions.

5. Sample response: Scientists use models to study atoms because they are too small to see. A physical model helps scientists see their arrangements and allows the ability to manipulate them. Using models, scientists are able to gain insight on how their particles are arranged, how atoms interact with each other, and simulate potential situations that the atoms may experience.
   
   
6. Sample response: Scientists use ecosystem models to help simulate events of such a complex system. Another benefit of using models is that since ecosystems involve living things (plants, animals) it would be dangerous or unethical to purposely pose risk to the species living in that particular area. In addition, the change of a real ecosystem can be a lengthy process, while the simulation presents the potential outcomes quickly. Using physical or computer models, scientists gain insight on factors such as weather, climate, photosynthesis, vegetation, predator/prey relationships, air/water quality, pollution, etc.