Claims, evidence, reasoning
The idea
A scientific explanation connects a claim to observations through reasoning. Evidence reports what was measured; reasoning explains why it supports the claim. Conclusions should stay within the limits of the investigation. Correlation alone does not establish a cause.
Worked example
If shaded plants grew less in a controlled study, report the measurements before suggesting a relationship with light. Avoid claiming that every plant species will respond identically.
Another application
A plane flew farther in four trials under one indoor launch method. This supports a limited claim about those trials. Additional launches, builders, and conditions would help test whether the result is robust.
A common misunderstanding
A conclusion should not imply that a small study proves a universal law. Describe the tested conditions and recognize other possible explanations.
Try it yourself
Write a conclusion using three labeled parts: claim, evidence, and reasoning. Add one limitation and one useful follow-up question.
Check your understanding
Does “my design is best” count as evidence?
Reveal the explained answer
No. It is a claim; evidence would include relevant observations or measurements.