Can We Believe the Claims?

Produced by Nelson Thornes, this resource helps students look at aspects of how science works. In particular, students are presented with data from a scientist who is working for a company making a food spread. The company claims that the spread reduces blood cholesterol. Students are asked questions regarding the repeatability, reproducibility, validity and bias of the study. They are also asked how the study could be made more repeatable and reproducible. Prior to tackling this activity, it would be useful for students to have prior knowledge about cholesterol and its link to heart disease. They should also know that statins are drugs used to lower cholesterol levels. This activity requires an appreciation of how scientific research may be seriously biased and flawed if the researchers have got something to gain.