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Scientific � Modeling

CLIMATE CHANGE AND MICHIGAN FORESTS

Lesson 4

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What does each model show?

A

B

C

D

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E

Distribute the Scientific Models Activity Page and divide students into partners. Give students 5-10 minutes to complete the Activity Page then review their answers as a class.

This model shows the relationship between the sun, earth, and moon. It simulates the movements of the sun, earth, and moon in space relative to each other.
This model shows different types of animals. It diagrams how different animals are related by evolution.
This model shows the layers of the earth. It helps us visualize the inside of the earth, which we can’t typically see.
Graphs like this can also be scientific models. This one shows temperature and growth for 8 northern red oak trees. It helps us predict what the relationship between temperature and tree growth will be in the future.
This model shows the water cycle. It helps us understand how water moves through different physical states and locations on the planet.

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What is a scientific model?

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Scientific models...

are created using real data or information.

show relationships between different variables.

make part of the world easier to understand.

allow us to make predictions about the future.

should be updated with new data.