making observations and inferences. objective be able to explain the difference between observation,...

Making Observations and Inferences

ObjectiveBe able to explain the difference between observation, inference, and assumption.

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 blue 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.

What does this mean in science terms?

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 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

ASSUMPTION• something we take for granted or presuppose• it is usually something we previously learned and do

not question• it is part of our system of beliefs. • we assume our beliefs to be true and use them to

interpret the world about us.

ASSUMPTIONExample:

Situation: A man is lying in the gutter. Inference: That man’s a bum. Assumption: Only bums lie in gutters.

Situation: A man is lying in the gutter. Inference: That man is in need of help.Assumption: Anyone lying in the gutter is in need of help.

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

http://www.criticalthinking.org/pages/critical-thinking-distinguishing-between-inferences-and-assumptions/484