Why Did Two Groups Get Different Answers?

Why Did Two Groups Get Different Answers?: Grade 4 Science Worksheet

Same sand, different answers? When two groups measure the same thing and get different results, scientists compare how each group measured. Two classes measure how hot the sand is at the same Florida beach at noon with the same thermometer. One measures in the shade (25 degrees C), one in the sun (40 degrees C). Students spot the one difference in their methods and use it to explain the different results.

Key Science Vocabulary

• method: how a group did its investigation
• result: what a group found out
• observation: something you notice with your senses or a tool
• thermometer: a tool that measures temperature
• compare: look for what is the same and what is different

What Students Do

• Read a short teach box: compare the time, the place, and the tool
• Part A: two picture cards for Class A and Class B; circle yes or no for same time, same tool, same place
• Part B: two circle questions to find the reason for the different results
• Answer key with a red reason line

Standards

Florida SC.4.N.1.2: Compare the observations made by different groups using multiple tools and seek reasons to explain the differences across groups. Also supports SC.4.N.1.5 (compare the methods and results of investigations done by classmates).

Where It Fits in Grades 3 to 8

Earlier grades compare observations with a partner. Grade 4 compares methods to explain different results. In grade 5 and middle school, this grows into variables, fair tests, and repeating trials.

Teaching Tip

Before the worksheet, have two groups measure the playground in the shade and in the sun at the same time, then compare their numbers. Prints clearly in black and white and takes 8 to 10 minutes.