Observation & Inference modified by Liz LaRosa www.middleschoolscience.com 2009, from original posted at: www.science-class.net/PowerPoints/Observation_Inference_8th.ppt

Observations Any information collected with the senses. The skill of describing scientific events 2 Types: Quantitative – measureable or countable 3 meters long 4 marbles 50 kilograms 35 degrees Celsius Qualitative – descriptive, not measureable red flowers smells like fresh baked cookies Tastes bitter

Inference Conclusions or deductions based on observations. The process of drawing a conclusion from given evidence or observation. Practice: Observations: I hear people screaming I smell cotton candy, popcorn, and hamburgers I see a lot of people Inference = ?

Note the Difference! In a lab, record observations- NOT inferences Inferences should be used when writing the conclusion in your lab report. Let’s test your observation skills…

Take a good look at this picture!

Question 1 Are there cars parked on the sides of the road?

Question 2 What color is the pickup truck driving in the road?

Question 3 Any minivans around?

Question 4 What does the blue sign say?

Question 5 What's the speed limit?

Question 6 Are there any pedestrians on the road?

Answers Yes Blue Yard Sale 35 mph No

Look at these two sets of animal tracks. List 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE

Now what do you think? Make 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE

Now what do you think? Make 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE

Activity Page In your science notebook, write your conclusion (at least three sentences). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPhWF2zPSwk

Source of graphic: http://bob.nap.edu/html/evolution98/evol6-e.html

On the Back How many hours/minutes did you study for the test? (outside of class) Did you feel prepared? What was your grade? What did you expect to get? What can you do differently for the next test?