Under the Minnesota science standards, what emphasis is placed on explaining phenomena?

• A. Memorizing vocabulary terms.
• B. Relying solely on teacher explanations.
• C. Using evidence, construct explanations, make predictions, and engage in inquiry-based reasoning.
• D. Focusing only on quantitative measurements.

Answer: (C)

Explaining phenomena through evidence-based reasoning and inquiry is what the Minnesota science standards emphasize. Students gather and evaluate data, construct explanations that link evidence to ideas, and justify their conclusions. They also make predictions and test ideas through inquiry, growing their ability to reason scientifically rather than just memorize or repeat information. This approach helps students see how scientific knowledge is built and tested.

Memorizing vocabulary terms alone doesn’t develop the ability to explain phenomena with evidence. Relying solely on teacher explanations limits student-driven reasoning and the practice of constructing arguments. Focusing only on quantitative measurements misses the broader need to interpret data, reason about cause and effect, and use evidence to support explanations.