Understanding Observation vs Inference in Scientific Inquiry
This lesson explores the fundamental differences between observation and inference in scientific inquiry. Students will develop skills in distinguishing qualitative and quantitative observations through engaging activities and group discussions. By examining real-life examples and analyzing animal tracks, students will practice making observations and inferences, thereby enhancing their understanding of the scientific process. This interactive session aims to foster curiosity and enrich the learning experience as we delve into the nature of science.
Understanding Observation vs Inference in Scientific Inquiry
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Presentation Transcript
Date: 8/?/16 Lesson Title: Observation vs. Inference Bell Ringer • 1.) As scientists, why do we perform experiments? Write down 3 observations you can make about this classroom? • 2.) Look at the image below. Write down what it is, and how you know.
MISSION • SWBATdifferentiate between observation and inference, and differentiate between qualitative and quantitativeobservations in order to develop a foundation in the • scientific inquiry process.
WHAT IS SCIENCE? Science is a system of knowledge and about the methods you use to find that knowledge. ...it begins with CURIOSITY and often ends with DISCOVERY
Before we get started... • SHOUT OUT WHATEVER OBSERVATIONS THAT YOU NOTICE...
Information you gather using your five senses Factual information that describes something Key Term #1: Observation
**These are observations because it is information obtained directly through senses!** EXAMPLES OF OBSERVATIONS
An INFERENCE is an assumption or a prediction made from observations Key Term #2: INFERENCE
**Is an assumption that cannot be directly observed with the senses** EXAMPLES OF INFERENCES
BACK TO THE DEMO • WERE THOSE OBSERVATION, INFERENCES or BOTH? • (*Try to use examples of what you said)
LETS PRACTICE!! • Malleable Intelligence = Practice
IN YOUR GROUPS... Hamburgers 200 People Cotton Candy What are your inferences? (Write your answer in your guided notes, be ready to share) Popcorn
Look at these two sets of animal tracks and on your guided notes... • List 3 Observations • Make an Inference FRAME #1
FRAME #2 List 3 Observations Make an Inference
FRAME #3 List 3 Observations Make an Inference
WHAT WERE THE TWO CATEGORIES THAT ALL OBSERVATIONS FALL UNDER? Back to OBSERVATIONS • QUALITATIVE or QUANTITATIVE
... ARE MEASURABLE OR COUNTABLE Key Term #3:Quantitative Observation
Describable not measurable Key Term #4:Qualitative Observation
Let’s Practice 1 2 3 4 5 6
EXIT TICKET • Time: 5 mins • Don’t Forget Your HW Worksheet. • Due tomorrow when you come in class.
