Mystery Footprints Observation & Inference Modified by Liz LaRosa

Mystery Footprints Observation & Inference Modified by Liz LaRosa www.middleschoolscience.com 2009-2015, from original posted at: http://www.science-class.net/NOS/observations/observations inference.htm

What does the word “observation” mean in science?

Observations Any information collected with the senses. Quantitative – measurable or countable » » » » 3 meters long 4 marbles 50 kilograms 35 degrees Celsius Qualitative – described, not measured » red flowers » smells like fresh baked cookies » tastes bitter The skill of describing scientific events

What does the word “inference” mean in science?

Inference Conclusions or deductions based on observations The process of drawing a conclusion from given evidence Practice: You will close your eyes and quietly listen to 3 observations After the observations have been shared, write down your inference into your notes Do not share your inference until asked to do so

Inference Practice: Close your eyes and listen to the following observations: I hear people screaming I smell cotton candy, popcorn, and hamburgers I see a lot of people Open your eyes Inference: Write down your inference, but do not share it with anyone yet

What was your inference & why? Amusement Park Day at the Beach Sporting Event Something else? Share and Discuss

Mystery Footprints You will be asked to view a series of 3 images. Record 3 observations and 1 inference for each image. Do not share your observations or inferences until asked to do so.

Image 1 Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE Share and Discuss

Image 2 Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE Share and Discuss

Image 3 Share and Discuss Record 3 OBSERVATIONS Make an INFERENCE

Discussion Questions 1. What event happened to cause these tracks? What is your hypothesis? 2. How do your observations support your hypothesis? 3. As a class, were there similarities/differences in our observations? In our inferences? 4. Why was it important not to share our observations and inferences right away? Can your answers influence others? 5. Can we know, with 100% certainty, how these footprints were formed? Why/Why not?

Source of footprints graphic: http://www.nap.edu/openbook.php?record id 5787&pa ge 89 as of 8/4/15 Chapter 6: Activities for Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science."Teaching About Evolution and the Nature of Science. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press, 1998. This book can be downloaded for free at: http://www.nap.edu/catalog/5787/teaching-about-evoluti on-and-the-nature-of-science