Introduction
Task
Scientists often make claims. A claim is a statement that includes a particular point of view about a topic or an issue. An example of a claim is:
"I claim that the resources at Melbourne Zoo used for 'Saving Our Species' should INSTEAD be invested in a 'Saving The Horses' campaign."
How can we have confidence in a claim?
Scientists use evidence to argue their claims. Sometimes the evidence is gathered from experimental investigations. Evidence can also be gathered from research as information or data.
- Your challenge is to gather information about the different animals at Melbourne Zoo that need our attention.
- You will create a table and use it to represent your information.
- You will then make a claim about which animal REALLY needs our support.
- You will support your claim using the evidence gathered from your research.
Process
Step 1: Create your table using these headings: Animal, Group (the animal belongs to), Threats, Status, Where it is found, Facts.
Step 2: Use the following websites to gather your information.
http://www.zoo.org.au/melbourne/animals/southern-corroboree-frog
Evaluation
It's decision time!
Select TWO animals you 'claim' should be saved. Then complete the decision making chart that explores the alternatives. Make sure you think like a scientist and list pros and cons based on the evidence you collected from research.
Conclusion
Claims, claims, claims!
- What is your claim for the Save Our Species Challenge?
- Which of the animals do you claim we should we be spending our money and time?
Complete the claim using this sentence stem:
I claim that...
Reasoning
Now it's time to give your reasoning!
- Summarise the evidence that informs the reasons for this choice.
- You may use dot points in developing your argument.
Collaboration
We will share our ideas and vote on our preferred animal.
Credits
Teacher Page
Your are successful when:
- You show the use of scientific knowledge of the animals to inform your decision. (SHE)
- You show an understanding that the survival of animals is affected by the conditions in their environment. (SKU)
- You correctly construct a table of data to represent all relevant information about each animal. (SIS: P & A data)
- You compare the data for each animal and use it as evidence for your reasoning. (SIS: P & A data)
- You communicate your ideas as a claim and use scientific language for your reasoning. (SIS: Communicating)
- You reflect on how your thinking about the problem might have changed after investigating the animals. (SIS: Q & P; Evaluating)