Observations• Observations- Using our five senses to

gather information about the world around us.

• There are two types of observations.– Qualitative & Quantitative

Observations• When you make observations in science, you want them to be

accurate and objective. That means your observation is an exact report of what your senses tell you. It avoids opinions or bias (favoritism).

• Ex 1: 16 students were present for class. 5 others students arrived after the bell rang. (accurate & objective)

• Ex 2: Half the class was late. (not accurate)• Ex 3: The friendliest people were there first. (not objective)

Qualitative Observations

• (quality)• Usually made with our senses. • Color, shape, feel, taste, sound.

– ie: The Qualities of the object you are observing.

Examples:• Olivia is wearing a blue sweater.• The lab tabletop is smooth.• The dog’s fur is shiny.

Make a Qualitative observation about your hand.

Quantitative Observations•(quantity)•How many. Will always have a number.•Based on exact measurement.Examples:•The room is 8 meters across.•Sarah is 141-cm tall.•The object’s mass is 25 grams•Question: Make a quantitative observation about your hand

Inferences• A logical interpretation of an event

that is based on observations and prior knowledge.

• What does this mean in 6th grade terms?

• A conclusion based on observations and/or prior knowledge.

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Making Inferences• 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)• Lost/Stolen/Broken

Observation vs. Inferences

– Observation – Based on the five senses• Sight• Smell• Touch• Taste• Hearing

– Inference – A conclusion based on prior knowledge or opinion

Observation vs. Inference • List 3 Observations• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observation and 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference • List 3 Observation• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference • List 3 Observations• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference • List 3 Observations --- List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observations

• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observations

• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observations

• List 3 Inferences