Observations Observations: We use our senses to
gather information about the world around us. There are two types of observations.
Qualitative Qualitative observation: (quality)
Uses words. Usually made with our senses.
See, Hear, Touch, Taste, Smell. Examples: Brutus is wearing a Scarlet
and Gray Long Sleeve Shirt. The lab tabletop is smooth.
Quantitative Quantitative observation: (quantity) How many? Will always have a number
Based on exact measurement. Examples:
The room is 8 meters across. Thelma is 141-cm tall. Earl weighs 68,100 Grams.
Inferences Inference:
A logical interpretation of an event that is based on observations and prior knowledge.
What does this mean in 6th grade 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 (Lunch Detention, ALC) Family problems at home (sick, accident) Student not feeling well Student has poor grades (failing, retention)
Observation vs. Inference Observation – Based on
the five senses: Sight Smell Touch Taste Hearing
A visible or provable fact. For example, the
whiteboard is white
Inference – Based on prior knowledge or opinion
For example, that dog looks ugly! Sorry Mrs. Snider!
Examples OBSERVATIONS
That plant is extremely wilted.
The car stopped running
There is 1 round table in this room.
INFERENCES That plant is extremely
wilted due to a lack of water.
The car stopped running because it was out of gas.
There is one round table in this room because Mr. Burger likes Rectangles better.
Observation vs Inference
List 2 Qualitative Observations
List 2 Quantitative Observations
List 1 Inference
Observation vs Inference
List 2 Qualitative Observations
List 2 Quantitative Observations
List 1 Inference