1. Process Skills - Observing
Definition
An observation is information using one of the five senses or technology (meter stick, thermometer, barometer, etc)
Purpose
Scientists record observations to keep track of what happens in an experiment and then they share that information with others
What?
Why?

2. Process Skills - Observing
Types
1. Qualitative
Observations that describe the characteristics (shape, color, relative size, odor, taste, texture, sound, behavior)
Less precise and can differ depending on the observer
Example: the lion has brown fur, its mane is long and wiry to the touch and smells dusty

3. Process Skills - Observing
2. Quantitative
Observations that measure or count quantities (length, mass, volume, distance, time, how many)
More precise and will not differ depending on the observer
Example: the lion has 4 legs, the lion chased its prey for 34 seconds, the lion’s tail is 1 meter long
Uses
Numbers!

4. Process Skills - Observing
Things to remember:
*Observations may be different for different people (smell, taste, texture, etc.)
*Observations can change over time
*Observations should be collected in an organized manner