Unit 5 Progress Check: Science Definitions

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 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 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 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 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. 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 Signup and view all the answers

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

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

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

Similarly 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) 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 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 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. 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 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. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Science and Definitions

Cookbooks, catalogues, and telephone books illustrate an overly inclusive definition of science.
Emphasis on flaws in existing definitions justifies the authors' efforts to refine the concept of science.

Observational Characteristics

Observation is discussed to highlight the empirical nature of scientific research.
The term "qualified" indicates specific conditions essential for an observation to be deemed scientific.

Experimentation and Planning

The adjective "deliberate" underscores the necessity of careful planning in scientific experiments.
The phrase regarding controlled conditions of observation reinforces why astronomy adheres to scientific standards.

Scientific Rationality

Different scientists are mentioned to dispel misconceptions about scientific rationality's true nature.

Logical Transitions

Effective transitions enhance the flow of arguments, such as linking Martian vacation planning to challenges in long-distance space travel.
Additional sentences can bridge evidence and commentary, aiding reader comprehension.

Stresses of Space Missions

The term "cramped" conveys the stressful environment of space missions.
"Dangerous" appropriately describes the health risks associated with stress in relation to immune response during missions.

Health Risks in Space

Cosmic rays represent a significant health threat, with research indicating potential links to cancers.

Psychological Impacts

Long-term space missions may lead to social and psychological challenges, exacerbating feelings of isolation and loneliness among astronauts.

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Description

Test your understanding of the themes presented in Unit 5 regarding definitions of science. This quiz challenges you with multiple-choice questions based on the provided text. Dive deep into the nuances of science as discussed by the authors.