From Observations to inferences 1.1

Title: From Observations to inferences

Author: Carla Cota

Week: Oct. 10, 2007

Unit/Lesson Plan #: Chapter 2, lesson 2

Unit theme:

Scientific thinking, observing, inferring, and hyptohesizing

Textbook references:

Learning objectives:

 1.Distinguish observations from inferences.

2. Classify questions according to whether or not they lead to scientific discoveries.

3. Suggest investigative questions.

Key Questions, Concepts, or Themes:

 
Evidence, models, and explanation

 
Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry

 Understandings about scientific inquiry

Nature of science

Stage 1:

Getting Started, ATE p. 25. To demonstrate that observations can often be biased by what we expect to see, try the following activity: Before class, select a group of 4-5 students, and instruct them to enter the room as soon as class starts. Tell them to throw a magazine on the floor, drop a plastic cup, or perform some other minor disturbance and then exit the room. Then ask other students to list observations of what happened. 

Stage 2:

 From Observations to Inferences, p. 25. Point out to students that there are subtle differences between the meanings of the terms infer and conclude.

 
Confusing Observations With Inferences, p. 26. Encourage students to write down some of their own incorrect inferences. Sayings, superstitions, and prejudiced beliefs are good examples. Then have students discuss and compare their lists with each other.

Stage 3:

Test Your Powers of Observation, p. 20. Although Exploration 1 is designed to stimulate discussion about the difference between qualitative and quantitative observations, have each student write the answer to question 5 individually before the discussion. An Exploration Worksheet, p. 14, is available to accompany Exploration 1.

Homework: (attach/link digital resources):

Science Skills Worksheet, p. 5. This worksheet helps students to learn to think objectively.

Assessments: (attach/link copies)

__ Group assessment

__ Observation of process/student work

__ Self-assessment by student

__ Teacher generated assignment

__ Written project

__ Test/Quiz

__ Other: ____________________________________