Observation vs. Inference

1. Observation vs. Inference Starring Homer J. Simpson

2. Ohh… This liquid is green and it is leaking from a brown can. It smells like a sewer. Observation • Observation: • when studying something describe only facts that you can see, touch, taste, smell and hear. • you are not making any guesses. • NOT AN OPINION!!

3. Based on my observations, I think that this can is old and is leaking a toxic substance. Inference • Inference: • using your observations to make a guess about an object or an outcome • based on prior knowledge or experience. • THIS CAN BE A SCIENTIFIC OPINION.

4. Based on my research and observations, I predict that the toxic substance will contaminate the pond and the frogs will change color. Prediction • Prediction: • a statement or claim that a particular event will occur in the future. • Scientists use research and many observations to make predictions. • THIS IS AN EDUCATED GUESS.

5. Based on my research and observations, I hypothesize that if a frog’s color is related to the toxic substance, then the frog will change color when exposed to the toxic substance. Hypothesis • Hypothesis: • a prediction that can be tested. • Scientists use research and many observations to make a hypothesis. • THIS IS AN EDUCATED GUESS.

6. Group Practice • Draw three columns under today’s NPH. Label column 1- “Observations” and label column 2- “Inferences” and label column 3- “Prediction”. • List some observations and inferences about the following picture. Then make a prediction.

7. Individual Practice • Write your name on the note card provided. On your note card, please write down 2 observations and 2 inferences about the following picture. Then make a prediction.

8. Ohh… This liquid is green and it is leaking from a brown can. I also smell it. Qualitative Observation • Qualitative Observation: • when studying something describe only facts that you can see, touch, taste, smell and hear. • you are not making any guesses. • NOT AN OPINION!!

9. Ohh… 5 liters of liquid has leaked from a 2-kiloliter can. It is leaking at a rate of 5 mL/sec. Quantitative Observation • Quantitative Observation: • when studying something describe only facts that you can measure. • you are not making any guesses. • scientists use SI units! • THIS IS NOT AN OPINION!!

10. Group Practice • Draw two columns under today’s NPH. Label column 1- “Qualitative Observations” and label column 2- “Quantitative Observations”. • List some qualitative and quantitative observations about the following pictures.

11. Individual Practice • Flip your note card over. Observe your hand. On your note card, please write down 2 qualitative observations and 2 quantitative observations.