Could there be another explanation?
For any result, ask: is there another explanation? — the first explanation that fits isn't always the right one, and good scientists actively look for alternatives
Lesson
Set out your lesson
“One result can fit different explanations. Look for plausible alternatives and a test where they predict different observations. These invented case data practise reasoning; no experiment is claimed. Safety: Paper analysis only. Any later practical repeat needs separate adult approval and a low setup. Stop: End at a proposed repeat. Do not perform an unapproved test or write an imagined result as an observation.”
Bring to the table
- Paper
- Pencil
- Two colouring pencils
Extra for the adult
Worked example. Answer: the new clue supports bending better than an end slipping, because the ends stayed supported. It does not prove that every bridge failure has that cause. A future end movement would instead support the slipping explanation.
Optional challenge. Suggest a third plausible cause and one observation that would help check it.
What to notice. Keep the annotated sketch and repeat-test plan. Note adult suggestions of alternatives; label all case data illustrative.
Share and support
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Learning resources
Extra practice links — they do not replace Gakuva’s teaching approach.
US EPA · Practice link — not the full lesson
Students
Before you open · source notes
Students supports Could there be another explanation?. An adult previews and guides; this is a learning page, not a scored quiz.
Free educational page, no sign-in required for the tested path.
Before you openAsk the learner one fact they learned and one question they still have.
Opening this link does not save learning or assess mastery.
Source, access and review notes
Public US EPA page. An anonymous GET on 2026-11-12 returned HTTP 200 with no login or payment prompt for this URL. Opening the link does not save practice or assess mastery. An adult should preview and guide the learner.
US EPA. “Students.” External page; Gakuva does not copy, host, embed, or redistribute materials.
Unknown — link only
Check understanding
- prompts to consider alternative possible worlds research (6-7 year olds)
- scientific thinking promotes critical thinking (MDPI 2025)
“When your child comes up with an explanation for something they observed, do they try to think of at least one other possible explanation before deciding they've found the answer?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Meta
- Subject
- Science
- Domain
- Scientific Inquiry
- Age range
- Ages 7–9