Results, Graphs and Conclusions
Section: Thinking and Working Scientifically | Syllabus: Cambridge Primary Stage 5 Science (0097)
Predictions, Patterns and Anomalies
- Compare a prediction with the actual results and state clearly whether it was supported.
- A pattern is a repeated relationship running through the data, such as results that increase, decrease or stay roughly the same.
- An anomalous result is a value that does not fit the overall pattern.
- Do not remove an anomaly without a reason
- check the method for that reading
- repeat that measurement to see if it was a mistake
Conclusions and Improvements
- A conclusion answers the original question, describes the pattern in the results and links it to scientific knowledge.
- A suggested improvement must say what to change and explain how it makes the evidence better.
- Useful improvements include more repeats, a wider range of values, smaller intervals between values and more precise equipment.
Presenting and Interpreting Data
- Label both axes of a graph and include the correct units.
- Use an even scale that uses most of the available graph space.
A line graph can reveal a pattern and highlight an anomalous result
| Display | Best used for |
|---|---|
| Table | Exact values |
| Bar chart | Separate categories |
| Dot plot | Showing the spread and frequency of individual values |
| Line graph | Continuous values and relationships |
Question: A magnet is tested through 0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 card layers. The pulling forces are 7.5, 5.0, 3.0, 3.8 and 1.0 N. Describe the pattern and identify the anomaly. [2]
Read the overall direction: more card usually gives a smaller force. Find the value that breaks this decrease: 3.8 N at three layers. AnswerAs the number of card layers increases, the force generally decreases. The anomalous result is 3.8 N.
Common Mistakes
MistakeA conclusion is just a list of results.
FixState the relationship, support it with evidence and connect it to scientific understanding.
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