Observation & Inference

Observation & Inference http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tPhWF2zPSwk

Observations • Any information collected with the senses. • The skill of describing scientific events • 2 Types: • Quantitative – measureable or countable • 3 meters long • 4 marbles • 50 kilograms • 35 degrees Celsius • Qualitative – descriptive, not measureable • red flowers • smells like fresh baked cookies • Tastes bitter

Inference • Conclusions or deductions based on observations. • The process of drawing a conclusion from given evidence or observation. Practice: • Observations: • I hear people screaming • I smell cotton candy, popcorn, and hamburgers • I see a lot of people • Inference = ?

Note the Difference! • In a lab, record observations- NOT inferences • Inferences should be used when writing the conclusion in your lab report. • Let’s test your observation skills…

Take a good look at this picture!

Question 1 Are there cars parked on the sides of the road?

Question 2 What color is the pickup truck driving in the road?

Question 3 Any minivans around?

Question 4 What does the green sign say?

Question 5 What's the speed limit?

Question 6 Are there any pedestrians on the road?

Answers • Yes • Blue • Yes • Yard Sale • 35 mph • No

Look at these two sets of animal tracks. List 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE

Now what do you think? Make 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE

Write your thoughts/conclusion. On the bottom of 7R. Round Robin Sharing! 

Source of graphic:http://bob.nap.edu/html/evolution98/evol6-e.html

Observation & Inference