Identify which explanation/model is supported (or contradicted) by new findings.
New findings matter only if you test what each model predicts.
核心知识
Use the new result as a model test. The stronger explanation is the one that correctly predicts what happened when the condition changed.
深入理解
These questions often give two explanations for the same pattern, then add one more experiment.
- Ask what each model predicts before looking at the choices.
- Use the new result as evidence, not decoration.
- A model can fit the old data and still fail the new finding.
分步讲解
- State what Model 1 would predict.
- State what Model 2 would predict.
- Choose the answer that matches the new result and updates support accordingly.
常见误解
- Picking the model with the more familiar scientific story instead of the one that fits the data.
- Ignoring that the follow-up experiment changed one variable on purpose.
- Assuming both models stay equally strong just because both explained the original observation.
示例解析
Scientists proposed two explanations for why pond insects cluster near floating plants. Scientist 1 said shade from the plants cools the water and attracts the insects. Scientist 2 said food particles collected on the plant stems attract the insects. In a follow-up study, all trays contained plastic stems. Mean insect counts were 3 for shaded clean stems, 2 for unshaded clean stems, 18 for shaded food-coated stems, and 17 for unshaded food-coated stems. Which explanation is most consistent with the new information?
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