Title: Observations and Inferences We are going to watch a short clip from a nature video. As the video proceeds, write down everything that you observe. –Write these observations on your CNB. Video observations

In order to keep warm the animals dig holes in side. The duck swimming up while facing up- ward. The ducks making ripples in the ocean water The rabbit was white for camouflage Little birds were pecking at the floor Video Observations

How are observations and inferences different from each other? Observations describe what is perceived by the senses. Example: There is a book on the table. Observing – means using one or more of your senses to gather information. Scientific conclusions can be drawn from observations.

There are quantitative and qualitative observations. Qualitative observations –Cannot be described or expressed in numbers. –You have to use your senses to observe the results. (Sight, smell, touch, taste and hear.) Quantitative observations –Described with numbers or amounts –Made with instruments such as rulers, balances, graduated cylinders, and thermometers. –Provide us with specific and precise information.

Inferences are explanations or interpretations about the things one observes. (Conclusions) –Example: Sam left his book on the table. Opinion a subjective belief, and is the result of emotion or interpretation of facts Example: That book must be interesting. Inferences and Opinions

Lets try again… Now that we have distinguished between the two, let’s try it again. We have three pictures taken of a rock surface with a set of impressions on it. As you are shown each picture, write down what you observe in that picture and then come up with as many inferences as possible based on those observations.

ObservationsInferences Pic 1 Pic 2 Pic 3

Picture 1

Picture 2

Picture 3

Are observations more important in science than inferences?

NO! Humans are naturally inclined to create explanations for the observations that we make.

Are observations more important in science than inferences? Observations and inferences are both fundamental elements of science. All scientific knowledge is based on observation and inference. Inferences based on scientific observations and other forms of data are influenced by background experiences, prior knowledge, creativity, etc. This is why scientists find it helpful to discuss their inferences with others, especially those with different backgrounds.

Quantitative and Qualitative observations. Mini-Lab Do worksheet –The worksheet will be collected separately. Do NOT glue it to your CNB.