Observation and Inference

Observation An Observation is something that is measurable or perceived by the senses.

Two Types Qualitative – Observations perceived by the senses. ex. Birds Chirping, Smell cookies, Quantitative – Observations that are measured. ex. Mass, Volume Temperature ?

Inference Inferences are opinions that are based on observations. An inference explains what you observed. ex. If we see a dog’s lip raised, we infer the dog is angry.

On the first warm day in March, Jennifer takes out her bicycle, which she has not ridden all winter. She finds it very difficult to pedal. She also is not able to ride as fast as she used to, even though the wind was behind her. Jennifer observes that a. she is out of shape b. the bicycle needs oil c. she is traveling unusually slow d. she needs to ride more often One possible inference Jennifer can make is that a. the wind is behind her b. she finds it difficult to pedal c. she cannot go as fast as she used to d. she is out of shape

Scientific Method A series of steps that are used to investigate the questions we have. SIX STEPS 1. Identify the Problem – - Ask a Question: What? Why? How?

2. Gather Information: - Make Observations - Take Notes – write down the facts - Draw Pictures, Diagrams, Maps - Research what others have done before 3. Form Hypothesis - Use your inference ability to form an educated guess that answers your question. - Based on the knowledge you already have.

4. Perform Experiment - A test where conditions are changed. Control – Conditions DO NOT change Manipulated Variables – Conditions that change (Independent) Dependent Variable – It depends on the independent.

5. Analyze Data: - Record results from experiment. - Record all trials - Graph results to make visual/mathematic comparisions 6. Form Conclusion: - Explains whether or not your hypothesis was correct or not. What changes could be made.