1. Observing, Inferring and Predicting
Science Skills

2. Observing
Definition:
Using one or more senses to gather information.

3. There are 2 types of observations:
Quantitative:
Involving numbers or measurements
“quantity”
Example: The block weighs 57 pounds
Qualitative:
Does not involve numbers; descriptive
Example: The solution smells sour

4. Inferring A.K.A. Making an inference
Definition: Making an inference is based on reasoning from what you already know from past experiences or based on your observations.
Example: If your teacher walked into the room with a stack of scantrons, you may infer that you are about to have a test.

5. Predicting Definition:
Making a forecast of what will happen in the future based on data.
Example:
Predicting that it will rain by looking at data of the previous and current weather conditions