Understanding Simulations
This worksheet helps fifth-grade students understand what simulations are, why they are used, and how they help us learn about the world.
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Understanding Simulations
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. A simulation is a model that imitates the operation of a real-world process or system over time. Scientists use simulations to test ideas and make predictions.
1. What is the main purpose of a simulation?
To play a game
To imitate a real-world system
To draw a picture
To hide information
2. Which of these is an example of something a simulation might be used for?
Baking a cake
Flying a real airplane
Practicing for an earthquake
Reading a book
3. Scientists use simulations to make about what might happen in the future.
4. A simulation is a type of that helps us understand complex things.
5. Simulations are always exactly like the real thing.
True
False
6. You can use a simulation to learn how to drive a car without being in a real car.
True
False
7. Give one reason why scientists might use a simulation instead of doing a real-world experiment.
8. Describe a simulation you have seen or used. What did it help you understand?