What science and engineering practice does the teacher encourage by having children determine why one container of marbles creates a louder noise than another?

The practice being encouraged by having children determine why one container of marbles creates a louder noise than another aligns closely with the process of constructing explanations and designing solutions. In this scenario, students are prompted to observe the outcomes of their experiment (the sound produced by the marbles in different containers) and then infer or articulate the reasons behind these observations. This active engagement fosters critical thinking as they relate variables such as the material, size, or number of marbles to the resulting sound levels.

Through this process, students learn to explain why certain conditions lead to specific outcomes, thus deepening their understanding of sound as a physical phenomenon. Additionally, this practice encourages them to think creatively about how to modify variables to achieve different results, which is a key component of designing solutions. This approach not only enhances their observational skills but also assists them in developing a scientific mindset that relies on evidence and reasoning.