Mystery Footprints Observation & Inference Image Source: http://www.clker.com/cliparts/p/a/v/i/X/W/animal-prints-hi.png Modified by Liz LaRosa www.middleschoolscience.com 2009-2015, from original posted at: http://www.science-class.net/NOS/observations/observations_inference.htm Modified by Liz LaRosa www.middleschoolscience.com 2009-2015, from original posted at: http://www.science-class.net/NOS/observations/observations_inference.htm

What does the word “observation” mean in science?

Observations Any information collected with the senses. The skill of describing scientific events Quantitative – measurable or countable 3 meters long 4 marbles 50 kilograms 35 degrees Celsius Qualitative – described, not measured red flowers smells like fresh baked cookies tastes bitter

What does the word “inference” mean in science?

Inference Conclusions or deductions based on observations The process of drawing a conclusion from given evidence Practice: You will close your eyes and quietly listen to 3 observations After the observations have been shared, write down your inference into your notes Do not share your inference until asked to do so

Inference Practice: Close your eyes and listen to the following observations: Open your eyes Inference: Write down your inference, but do not share it with anyone yet I hear people screaming I smell cotton candy, popcorn, and hamburgers I see a lot of people

What was your inference & why? Amusement Park Share and Discuss Day at the Beach Sporting Event Something else?

Mystery Footprints You will be asked to view a series of 3 images. Record 3 observations and 1 inference for each image. Do not share your observations or inferences until asked to do so.

Image 1 Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE Share and Discuss

Image 2 Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE Share and Discuss

Image 3 Share and Discuss Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE

Discussion Questions What event happened to cause these tracks? What is your hypothesis? How do your observations support your hypothesis? As a class, were there similarities/differences in our observations? In our inferences? Why was it important not to share our observations and inferences right away? Can your answers influence others? Can we know, with 100% certainty, how these footprints were formed? Why/Why not?

This book can be downloaded for free at: Source of footprints graphic: http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=5787&page=89 as of 8/4/15 Chapter 6: Activities for Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science."Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1998. This book can be downloaded for free at: http://www.nap.edu/catalog/5787/teaching-about-evolution-and-the-nature-of-science