1. Observations BIOLOGY 1

2. Types of observations/research:  Qualitative: when the object is described in terms of quality. (It was green. It smelled like candy.)  Quantitative: when the object is described or measured in concrete numerical terms. (there are 30 students in my class. I ate 1 pound of potatoes.)

3. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The cup had a mass of 454 grams.

4. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The cup had a mass of 454 grams. Quantitative

5. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The temperature outside is 25° C.

6. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The temperature outside is 25° C. Quantitative

7. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  It is warm outside.

8. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  It is warm outside. Qualitative

9. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The tree is 30 feet tall.

10. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The tree is 30 feet tall. Quantitative

11. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The building is taller than the tree.

12. Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:  The building is taller than the tree. Qualitative

13. When does an observation become an inference?  Observation: Using one or more of your senses to gather information and record facts.  Example: There is one projector in the room.

14. When does on observation become an inference?  Inference: logical interpretation based upon prior knowledge and experience.  Example: Since students are wearing coats, it must be cold outside.

15. In a Lab Setting  Record your data as observations and facts, NOT inferences.  Inferences can be used in your analysis and conclusion portion of your lab report.

16. Now, lets practice!  Observation/inference practice Observation/inference practice