Aim: How do scientists make observations? Do Now: Write down five (5) things you notice about this...
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Transcript of Aim: How do scientists make observations? Do Now: Write down five (5) things you notice about this...
Aim: How do scientists make observations?
Do Now: Write down five (5) things you notice about this classroom.
Observations
• Using one or more of your senses to gather information about the world.
• There are two types of observations (qualitative and quantitative)
Qualitative Observations
• Descriptions that DO NOT use numbers. Examples:
The sky is blue. The air smells good. Lemons are tart. The band is loud. The soap is slimy.
Quantitative Observations
• Descriptions that DO include numbers. Usually these observations are made using tools. Examples:
There are 26 people in the room. The football field is 100 yard long. The stone weighs 10 kilograms. The bottle contains 1 liter of water.
Tips for making observations:
• Use the five senses when it is safe (NEVER TASTE OR SMELL AN UNKNOWN).
• When possible use an instrument to make a quantitative observation. Make sure you include the unit of measurement.
• Check to make sure you are making statements about information gained through your senses and not explanations of what you observed.
What is an inference? • An inference is an explanation or interpretation of
observations. • Inferences are based not only on observations but
prior knowledge as well. Example: Observations made:
1. The tree is lying on the ground. 2. There is a saw next to it.
Inference: The saw was used to cut down the tree.
Activity
Use your knowledge of making observations to help you answer the questions on the sheet you were given.
Homework