Observation & Inference

Observations

• Any information collected with the senses. • The skill of describing scientific events.

Inference

• Conclusions or deductions based on observations .

• The process of drawing a conclusion from given evidence.

Tracks like these are common in parts of New

England and in the southwestern United

States.

What do you OBSERVE?

What can you INFER?

Now what do

you think?

Source of graphic:

http://bob.nap.edu/html/evolution98/evol6-e.html observations.

Observations• Observations: We use our senses to

gather information about the world around us. There are two types of observations.

Qualitative• Qualitative observation: (quality)

Usually made with our senses. • Color, shape, feel, taste, sound.Examples:• Olivia is wearing a red sweater.• The lab tabletop is smooth.• The dog’s fur is shiny.

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 450 Newtons.

Inferences

• Inference:• A logical interpretation of an event

that is based on observations and prior knowledge.

• A conclusion drawn from observations.

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)

Observation VS Inferences

– Observation – Based on the five senses:• Sight• Smell• Touch• Taste• Hearing

– Inference – Based on prior knowledge or opinion

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observations

• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observation and 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observation

• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observation

• List 3 Inferences

Observation vs Inference

• List 3 Observation

• List 3 Inferences

Resources:

• http://teachers.henrico.k12.va.us/highlandsprings/meade_j/Units/Unit%201/Unit%201,%20Part%201%20Notes.PPT#289,43,Experimental Design

• http://www.cobb.k12.ga.us/~dickerson/sci%20method.ppt#256,1,Scientific Method