Science: Conflicting Viewpoints Flashcards

A passage presents three theories on dinosaur metabolism. A question asks which theory is UNIQUE in claiming warm-bloodedness. You should:

Answer: Find the single theory that asserts warm-bloodedness

A 'unique' claim belongs to only one theory, so isolate the one making that specific assertion.

When a question asks you to identify a FLAW in a viewpoint, the best answer:

Answer: Points to a gap or unsupported leap in its reasoning

A flaw is a logical gap, overlooked factor, or unsupported step within the viewpoint's argument.

Scientist A relies on lab experiments; Scientist B relies on field observations. This difference is one of:

Answer: Methodology

Differing reliance on lab versus field evidence is a difference in methodology or approach.

A new study confirms a prediction made by BOTH viewpoints. This result:

Answer: Does not distinguish between the two viewpoints

Evidence shared by both predictions cannot favor one over the other, so it fails to distinguish them.

To answer 'Which viewpoint would be most weakened if Assumption X is false?', you should first:

Answer: Determine which viewpoint depends on Assumption X

A false assumption hurts the viewpoint that relies on it, so identify which one depends on X.

In Conflicting Viewpoints questions, paraphrasing each viewpoint in your own words helps because it:

Answer: Clarifies the core argument and reduces confusion

Restating each argument simply helps you keep the competing claims straight under time pressure.

A question asks which evidence both scientists would accept as VALID even if they interpret it differently. Look for:

Answer: An observation neither disputes

Shared valid evidence is an observation both accept as real, even if their interpretations diverge.