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Modified by Liz LaRosa 2009-2015, from original posted at:

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1 Modified by Liz LaRosa www.middleschoolscience.com 2009-2015, from original posted at: http://www.science-class.net/NOS/observations/observations_inference.htmwww.middleschoolscience.com http://www.science-class.net/NOS/observations/observations_inference.htm Mystery Footprints Observation & Inference

2 What does the word “observation” mean in science?

3 Observations Any information collected with the senses. Quantitative – measurable or countable »3 meters long »4 marbles »50 kilograms »35 degrees Celsius Qualitative – described, not measured »red flowers »smells like fresh baked cookies »tastes bitter The skill of describing scientific events

4 What does the word “inference” mean in science?

5 Inference Conclusions or deductions based on observations The process of drawing a conclusion from given evidence Practice: You will close your eyes and quietly listen to 3 observations After the observations have been shared, write down your inference into your notes Do not share your inference until asked to do so

6 Inference Practice : Close your eyes and listen to the following observations : I hear people screaming I smell cotton candy, popcorn, and hamburgers I see a lot of people Open your eyes Inference: Write down your inference, but do not share it with anyone yet

7 Amusement Park Day at the Beach Sporting Event Something else? What was your inference & why? Share and Discuss

8 Mystery Footprints You will be asked to view a series of 3 images. Record 3 observations and 1 inference for each image. Do not share your observations or inferences until asked to do so.

9 Image 1 Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE Share and Discuss

10 Image 2 Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE Share and Discuss

11 Image 3 Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE Share and Discuss

12 Discussion Questions 1.What event happened to cause these tracks? What is your hypothesis? 2.How do your observations support your hypothesis? 3.As a class, were there similarities/differences in our observations? In our inferences? 4.Why was it important not to share our observations and inferences right away? Can your answers influence others? 5.Can we know, with 100% certainty, how these footprints were formed? Why/Why not?

13 Source of footprints graphic: http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=5787&pa ge=89 as of 8/4/15 http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record_id=5787&pa ge=89 Chapter 6: Activities for Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science."Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1998. This book can be downloaded for free at: http://www.nap.edu/catalog/5787/teaching-about- evolution-and-the-nature-of-science


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