Texas TEKS 7.4.B
The Standard
make informed decisions by evaluating evidence from multiple appropriate sources to assess the credibility, accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and methods used
Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Science
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students compare scientific claims and decide which evidence is trustworthy and useful. They check who produced each source, how data were collected, whether results agree, and whether benefits justify costs.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Given several sources, students identify the strongest evidence and explain why it is stronger. They choose a practical option using source quality, testing methods, performance, and price.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may trust the first search result, a polished graph, or a familiar organization without checking the evidence. They may confuse the lowest price with cost-effectiveness or overlook sample size, controls, repeated trials, and hidden costs.
How to Assess It
- Give students three source cards about water filters: a company ad, a lab report, and a customer review, each with price data. Ask, “Which filter should our class buy, and what evidence supports your choice? Name one weakness in a source.”
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Test two paper-towel brands with equal water spills, record sheets used and price per cleanup, then compare results with package claims.
Read a company ad and an independent lab summary, then write which source is more credible and name two reasons.
Play Source Detective with claim cards, awarding points for spotting sample size, controls, author expertise, missing data, and hidden costs.
Compare LED and incandescent bulb data for energy use, lifespan, and price, then recommend the cheaper long-term choice for the classroom.
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Printable 7.4.B Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to 7.4.B, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
PDF, US Letter, prints cleanly in black and white.
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Related Standards
- 4.3.C
listen actively to others' explanations to identify relevant evidence and engage respectfully in scientific discussion.
- 8.4.B
make informed decisions by evaluating evidence from multiple appropriate sources to assess the credibility, accuracy, cost-effectiveness, and methods used
- 3.3.C
listen actively to others' explanations to identify relevant evidence and engage respectfully in scientific discussion.
- 6.4.B
The 6th Grade version of this standard.
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