Science
What to know
The Science domain covers inquiry, physical, life, and Earth/space science. In inquiry, identify variables: independent (changed), dependent (measured), and controlled (kept constant). Distinguish observation (using senses or tools) from inference (explanation), and hypothesis (testable prediction) from theory (well-supported explanation). Physical science includes properties of matter, states, mixtures and solutions, force and motion, energy forms and transfer, and simple machines. Life science includes cells, food chains and webs, photosynthesis, adaptations, life cycles, and inherited versus learned traits. Earth/space includes the water cycle, weather versus climate, rocks and soil, and the causes of seasons-Earth’s axial tilt, not distance from the Sun.
Traps
Mass is the amount of matter (constant); weight changes with gravity. In food chains, arrows show energy flow toward the consumer. Seasons are caused by tilt, not proximity. “Control group” versus “controlled variable” is a common confusion.
Worked example
A student tests whether fertilizer affects plant height. Fertilizer amount is independent; height is dependent; same soil, water, light, and pot size are controlled variables. If all plants get fertilizer, there is no control group, so the effect cannot be isolated.