Observations and Inferences
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Transcript of Observations and Inferences
Observations and
Inferences
ObservationsUse one or more of the 5 senses
Used to note and record facts or data
Ex: There is one TV in the room.
Types of Observations
. Qualitative
Quantitative
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• *Deals with descriptions.
* Data can be observed but not measured.
*Colors, textures, smells, tastes, appearance
Qualitative → Quality Ex: The frog’s skin is cold, smooth, and slimy.
*Deals with numbers.
*Data which can be measured.
*Length, height, area, volume, weight, speed, time, temperature, , age
Quantitative → Quantity
Ex: The worm is 3.2 cm long.
Inference
Inference- logical conclusion based on prior knowledge or experience
Ex: The adult at the front of the classroom is a teacher.
Let’s test your observation skills……
Take a good look at this picture….
Answer the following questions.. 1. Are there cars parked on the sides of the road?
2. What color is the pickup truck driving in the road?
3. Any minivans around?
4.What's the speed limit?
5.Are there any pedestrians on the road?
Answer1. Yes
2. Blue
3. Yes
4. 35 mph
5. No
Answers
Make an inference aboutthis scene.
Observation Practice In this class, we will be making observations about the physical characteristics and behaviors of an organism.
Physical characteristics describe in detail, the appearance of an organism. ex: The cat has black hair.
Improve this observation. Hint think about using your five senses!
The cat has black, straight, The hair on the body is 5 cm in coarse hair, covering its length.entire body.
quantitativequalitative
Behaviors are the actions that are performed by an organism.
After a 2 minute observation, the following was recorded: The cat twitched its tail 17 times.
Provide some additional answers.
The cat’s eyes rolled back and forth 22 times.The cat’s back rose 11 times.The cat’s left ear bent downward 8 times. Make an inference about this cat.
The cat is waiting to chase a mouse.
Note the differences….
In laboratory exercises, record observations NOT inferences
Inferences may be used when writing the conclusion in your lab report.
MAKING OBSERVATIONS
Blue Footed Booby
quantitative qualitative
Emperor Penguin
MAKING OBSERVATIONSquantitative qualitative