LightMySky

Asking scientific questions

Ask simple scientific questions and recognise that they can be answered in different ways including observation, testing, and research

No account needed. Progress saves in this browser.

What a learner can do afterwards

  • Ask at least three 'how' or 'why' questions about the natural world
  • Suggest different ways to answer a question: observing, testing, asking an expert, reading a book
  • Choose an appropriate method to investigate a specific question

The lesson

Scientists look at the world and wonder. They ask questions that start with how or why. A good question makes you want to find out more.

Try it together

Mia sees ants walking in a line. She asks, 'Why do ants walk in a line?' That is a great science question.

LookTestAskRead
Four ways to find an answer: look, test, ask, or read.
Good to know

Not every question needs the same method. Pick the way that fits your question best. Some things you look at. Some things you test.

Ask a how or why question. Then pick a way to find out: look, test, ask, or read.

Watch it

Where it sits

Where this leads

Jobs that lean on this skill. Follow one to see everything it is built on.

Then practise

8 questions wait behind this lesson, each with its answer explained. Every answer feeds the sky: stars light as they are learned, and dim when it is time to come back.

Asking scientific questions · Science, ages 5 to 8 · LightMySky