Science, People and Decisions
Section: Science in Context | Syllabus: Cambridge Primary Stage 5 Science (0097)
Scientific Ideas Change with Evidence
- Scientific knowledge can change when new enquiries produce stronger, more reliable evidence.
- Scientists compare results, repeat work and improve models and explanations as new evidence becomes available.
- A changed explanation is a strength of science, not a weakness, when it fits the available evidence better than the old one.
Science in the Local Area
- Science is used by many people in a local community, often as part of their everyday job.
| Person | How science may be used |
|---|---|
| Farmer or gardener | Soil, plant growth, pests and water use |
| Health worker | Nutrition, disease prevention and medicines |
| Water technician | Testing and treating water |
| Mechanic or engineer | Forces, materials and energy |
| Environmental scientist | Monitoring pollution and habitats |
- Local examples will differ between communities, so it is useful to think about the specific jobs and science used where you live.
Using Science to Support a Point
- State a clear claim.
- Give relevant evidence, such as observations, measurements or trusted research.
- Explain how the evidence actually supports the claim, rather than just stating both separately.
- Keep evidence and opinion separate - a science-based point is built on evidence, not just a belief.
Positive and Negative Environmental Effects
- Most uses of science and technology have both benefits and drawbacks for the environment, and weighing these up is part of making good decisions.
| Use of science or technology | Possible positive effect | Possible negative effect |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticides | Protect crops and improve yield | May harm pollinators and other organisms |
| Water treatment | Makes water safer | Uses energy and produces waste |
| Transport | Moves people and goods | Can produce air pollution |
| Solar panels | Generate electricity without fuel smoke during use | Making and disposing of panels uses materials |
Question: A town considers banning single-use plastic bags. Give one science-based point supporting the ban and one possible drawback. [2]
Use environmental evidence for the benefit: plastic persists and can harm wildlife. Recognise a trade-off: alternatives also require materials and energy. AnswerThe ban may reduce long-lasting litter that can harm animals. A drawback is that replacement bags also require materials and energy, so their repeated use matters.
Common Mistakes
MistakeA science-based argument gives only an opinion.
FixSupport the claim with relevant observations, measurements or reliable research and explain the link.
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