Which example best describes Josette engaging in scientific inquiry? A. Josette repeats an experiment about the rolling of objects after researching the history of scientists doing similar experiments. B. Josette questions whether a small or large marble will roll faster and designs an experiment to discover the answer. C. Josette pays close attention as her teacher explains the rolling of objects and takes detailed notes on the lecture. D. Josette researches the calculations for marble rolling speed and performs her calculations following the provided instructions. SUBMIT

The example that best describes Josette engaging in scientific inquiry is B. Josette questions whether a small or large marble will roll faster and designs an experiment to discover the answer. This is because scientific inquiry involves asking questions and conducting experiments to find answers. In this case, Josette is doing exactly that by formulating a question about the natural world and setting up an experiment to test her hypothesis.

Extra: Scientific inquiry is a cornerstone of science education and the scientific method. It involves a series of steps: asking a question, conducting background research, forming a hypothesis, designing and carrying out an experiment, analyzing data, drawing conclusions, and communicating results. Let's break down each step:

1. Asking a question: Scientists start with the curiosity about an observation or a general wonder about how something works.

2. Conducting background research: Before starting an experiment, it's important to understand what others have found out before. This can help in refining the question and developing a hypothesis.

3. Forming a hypothesis: Based on the research and understanding of the topic, a scientist makes an educated guess about the answer to the question.

4. Designing and carrying out an experiment: Experiments are planned tasks that are designed to test the hypothesis. Good experiments will have controls and variables that are manipulated to ensure accurate results.

5. Analyzing data: After conducting the experiment, scientists must look closely at the data collected to see if it supports the hypothesis or not.

6. Drawing conclusions: Based on the analysis, conclusions are formed about the hypothesis. This could mean the hypothesis is supported, refuted, or that more testing is needed.

7. Communicating results: Sharing findings with other scientists and the community is a critical part of the scientific process. This allows others to learn from, replicate, or challenge the findings.

In the given examples, A shows repetition of experiments, C involves passively learning from instruction, and D relates to performing calculations based on existing knowledge. Only B embodies the act of inquiry which is central to the process of science.