1. Making Observations and Inferences

2. Observations Observations: what we notice about the world around us
Two types of observations.
Quantitative
Qualitative

3. Qualitative
Describe the qualities of an object (things that cannot be measured with numbers)
Color, shape, feel, taste, sound.
Examples:
Olivia is wearing a blue sweater.
The lab tabletop is smooth.
The dog’s fur is shiny.

4. Quantitative Quantity: How many? The answer will always have a number.
Examples:
The room is 8 meters across.
Sarah is 141-cm tall.
Pencil has a mass of 45 grams.

5. Inferences Inference:
A logical interpretation of an event that is based on observations and prior knowledge.

6. Inferencing Example:
You are at the counter in the office to get a bus pass signed. You see a student leave the principal’s office crying and upset. We could make an inference as to why the student is upset.
Could be in trouble (ISS, OSS, expelled)
Family problems at home (sick, accident)
Student not feeling well
Student has poor grades (failing, retention)

7. Observation VS Inferences
Observation – things you
See
Smell
Touch
Taste
Hear
Inference – how you interpret what you see

8. Observation vs Inference Picture 1
List 3 Observations
List 3 Inferences

9. Observation vs Inference Picture 2
List 3 Observations
List 3 Inferences

10. Observation vs Inference Picture 3
List 3 Observations
List 3 Inferences

11. Resources:
eade_j/Units/Unit%201/Unit%201,%20Part%201% 20Notes.PPT#289,43,Experimental Design
hod.ppt#256,1,Scientific Method