Unit 5 Progress Check: Science Definitions

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Questions and Answers

In the second sentence of the first paragraph, the authors mention cookbooks, catalogues, and telephone books primarily to

Demonstrate that a particular definition of science is overly inclusive (correct)
Demonstrate that these are similar to science
Show the importance of science in daily life
Critique the use of definitions in scientific discourse

The repetition of the phrase 'which they are not' in the first paragraph achieves which of the following effects?

It confuses the reader
It makes the argument weaker
It highlights the flaws of existing definitions
It adds emphasis to the existing definitions
It justifies the authors' efforts to define science by emphasizing the flaws of existing definitions (correct)

In the final sentence of the first paragraph, the authors choose to use the word 'absurd' in order to

Express personal feelings about existing definitions
Critique other scientific definitions
Emphasize a previous distinction between rationality and reasonableness (correct)
Diminish the importance of science
Make a humorous point

In the second paragraph, the authors discuss observation primarily to

Define the empirical character of scientific work (C) Signup and view all the answers

In the fourth sentence of the second paragraph, the authors use the word 'qualified' in order to

Note a condition that must be met for an observation to be scientific (D) Signup and view all the answers

In the second sentence of the third paragraph, the authors use the adjective 'deliberate' to emphasize the

Careful planning necessary in scientific experiments (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the final sentence of the third paragraph, the clause 'although we do control the conditions of observation' functions as a transitional element that

Clarifies the reasons astronomy meets the standards for scientific rigor (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the relationship between the fourth and fifth sentences of the final paragraph?

The fifth sentence elaborates on an assertion made in the preceding sentence. (C) Signup and view all the answers

The authors discuss different scientists in the last two sentences of the passage primarily to

Correct a misconception about the nature of scientific rationality (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following choices creates the most logical transition within sentence 2?

(As it is now) (B) Signup and view all the answers

The writer wants to add a sentence immediately before sentence 3 to connect the evidence and commentary provided in the second paragraph to the overall argument of the passage. Which of the following choices most effectively accomplishes this goal?

While NASA astronauts are already experienced with the difficulties humans experience in outer space, these problems would be intensified on long-term missions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which choice provides the best transition to the subject of sentence 5?

Similarly (C) Signup and view all the answers

The writer wants to clearly demonstrate the relationship between ideas in the third paragraph. Which version of sentence 8 most successfully supports this goal?

(As it is now) (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which version of the underlined portion of sentence 9 best conveys the writer's point about the stressful nature of space missions?

Cramped (A) Signup and view all the answers

In the underlined portion of sentence 10, which choice of adjective best fits the style and tone of the writer's argument?

Dangerous (C) Signup and view all the answers

The writer is considering adding the following sentence after sentence 10: 'Cosmic rays pose another health concern: a 2018 study from Georgetown University Medical Center found that prolonged exposure to cosmic radiation could lead to stomach and colon cancers.' Should the writer add this sentence after sentence 10?

Yes, because it makes a claim that supports the writer's line of reasoning in the third paragraph. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In sentence 12, which version of the underlined word best conveys the writer's perspective on long space missions?

Possible (C) Signup and view all the answers

The writer wants to add an additional body paragraph to support the passage's argument. Which of the following claims would make the best topic for such a paragraph?

Long-term missions would create social and psychological issues, such as extreme isolation and loneliness, that may have a negative impact on space travelers. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Why are cookbooks, catalogues, and telephone books mentioned?

The authors use cookbooks, catalogues, and telephone books as examples of things that are not considered science, demonstrating that a definition of science that encompasses all these things is too broad.

Why is 'which they are not' repeated?

The repetition emphasizes the flaws of existing definitions of science, justifying the authors' aim to define science more precisely.

Why is 'absurd' used?

The authors use the word 'absurd' to highlight the difference between rationality, which involves logical thinking, and reasonableness, which involves considering practical and emotional aspects.

Why is observation discussed?

Observation is discussed to define the empirical nature of scientific work, meaning that knowledge is gained through experience and observation.