1. Aim: How do scientists make observations? Do Now: Write down five (5) things you notice about this classroom.

2. Observations Using one or more of your senses to gather information about the world. There are two types of observations (qualitative and quantitative)

3. Qualitative Observations Descriptions that DO NOT use numbers. Examples: The sky is blue. The air smells good. Lemons are tart. The band is loud. The soap is slimy.

4. Quantitative Observations Descriptions that DO include numbers. Usually these observations are made using tools. Examples: There are 26 people in the room. The football field is 100 yard long. The stone weighs 10 kilograms. The bottle contains 1 liter of water.

5. Tips for making observations: Use the five senses when it is safe (NEVER TASTE OR SMELL AN UNKNOWN). When possible use an instrument to make a quantitative observation. Make sure you include the unit of measurement. Check to make sure you are making statements about information gained through your senses and not explanations of what you observed.

6. What is an inference? An inference is an explanation or interpretation of observations. Inferences are based not only on observations but prior knowledge as well. Example: Observations made: 1.The tree is lying on the ground. 2.There is a saw next to it. Inference: The saw was used to cut down the tree.

7. Activity Use your knowledge of making observations to help you answer the questions on the sheet you were given.

9. Homework