Observation vs. Inference Starring Homer J. Simpson

Observation Observation: Ohh… This liquid is green and it is leaking from a brown can. It smells like a sewer. Observation: when studying something describe only facts that you can see, touch, taste, smell and hear. you are not making any guesses. NOT AN OPINION!!

Inference Based on my observations, I think that this can is old and is leaking a toxic substance. Inference: using your observations to make a guess about an object or an outcome based on prior knowledge or experience. THIS CAN BE A SCIENTIFIC OPINION.

Prediction Prediction: Based on my research and observations, I predict that the toxic substance will contaminate the pond and the frogs will change color. Prediction: a statement or claim that a particular event will occur in the future. Scientists use research and many observations to make predictions. THIS IS AN EDUCATED GUESS.

Warm-up Turn in Safety Contract Turn in Safety Review HW Clear your desk except for a pencil….put cell phone in the upper right hand corner of your desk.. face down.

Hypothesis Hypothesis: a prediction that can be tested. Based on my research and observations, I hypothesize that if a frog’s color is related to the toxic substance, then the frog will change color when exposed to the toxic substance. Hypothesis: a prediction that can be tested. THIS IS AN EDUCATED GUESS.

Theory A well-substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world.

Group Practice Draw three columns under today’s NPH. Label column 1- “Observations” and label column 2- “Inferences” and label column 3- “Prediction”. List some observations and inferences about the following picture. Then make a prediction.

Individual Practice Write your name on the note card provided. On your note card, please write down 2 observations and 2 inferences about the following picture. Then make a prediction.

Qualitative Observation Ohh… This liquid is green and it is leaking from a brown can. I also smell it. Qualitative Observation: when studying something describe only facts that you can see, touch, taste, smell and hear. you are not making any guesses. NOT AN OPINION!!

Quantitative Observation Ohh… 5 liters of liquid has leaked from a 2-kiloliter can. It is leaking at a rate of 5 mL/sec. Quantitative Observation: when studying something describe only facts that you can measure. you are not making any guesses. scientists use SI units! THIS IS NOT AN OPINION!!

Group Practice Draw two columns under today’s NPH. Label column 1- “Qualitative Observations” and label column 2- “Quantitative Observations”. List some qualitative and quantitative observations about the following pictures.

Individual Practice Flip your note card over. Observe your hand. On your note card, please write down 2 qualitative observations and 2 quantitative observations.