1. Making Observations and Inferences

2. Observations
Observations: We use our senses to gather information about the world around us.
What are our “five senses”?
Discuss this with another person on the computer, or write a comment to me on Edcanvas or Edmodo.

3. Did you talk about ….

4. There are two types of observations.
Quantitative= quantity a # number
Qualitative= quality by observing

5. Qualitative
Qualitative observation: (quality) Usually made with our senses.
Color, shape, texture, taste, sound.
Examples:
Olivia is wearing a blue sweater.
The lab tabletop is smooth.
The dog’s fur is shiny.

6. Quantitative
Quantitative observation: (quantity) How many. Will always have a number.
Based on exact measurement.
Examples:
The room is 8 meters across.
Sarah is 141-cm tall.
Sam weighs 150 pounds.

7. Inferences Inference:
A logical interpretation of an event that is based on observations and prior knowledge.
What does this mean in 5th grade science?
Turn to a friend right now and
talk quietly about this!

8. 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)

9. Let’s summarize: Observations VS Inferences
Observation – Based on the five senses:
Sight
Smell
Touch
Taste
Hearing
Inference – Based on prior knowledge or opinion

10. Now let’s observe Choose 1 of the next few slides to evaluate
In your notebook, write a title for the picture you choose. (example “shed observation”)
On the top half of the page, record your observations (3 or more)
On the bottom half of the page, record your inferences (3 or more)

11. Observation vs Inference
List 3 Observations
List 3 Inferences

12. Observation vs Inference
List 3 Observations and 3 Inferences

13. Observation vs Inference
List 3 Observations
List 3 Inferences

14. Observation vs Inference
List 3 Observations
List 3 Inferences

15. Observation vs Inference
List 3 Observations
List 3 Inferences

16. Resources:
Design
Method
Adjustments made by Mrs. Thompson
LISD Teacher