Ideas in Science: Theories, Hypotheses, and Laws

This resource explains the difference between scientific theories, hypotheses, and laws.
  • A scientific theory is an explanation inferred from multiple lines of evidence for some broad aspect of the natural world and is logical, testable, and predictive.
  • As new evidence comes to light, or new interpretations of existing data are proposed, theories may be revised and even change; however, they are not tenuous or speculative.
  • A scientific hypothesis is an inferred explanation of an observation or research finding; while more exploratory in nature than a theory, it is based on existing scientific knowledge.
  • A scientific law is an expression of a mathematical or descriptive relationship observed in nature.
Resource ID#: 20588 Type: Professional Development
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Direct Link: http://www.visionlearning.com/library/module_viewer.php?mid=177

General Information

Subject(s): Science
Grade Level(s): 7
Intended Audience: Educators educators
Suggested Technology: Computer for Presenter
Keywords: hypothesis, theory, law
Instructional Component Type(s): Professional Development
Resource Collection: iCPALMS

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