From Observations to Inferences 1.4

Title:From Observations to Inferences

Author: Carla Cota

Week: Oct. 13, 2007

Unit/Lesson Plan #:

Unit theme:

Textbook references:

Learning objectives:

Key Questions, Concepts, or Themes:

Stage 1:

 ATE p. 30. Briefly show a picture, photograph, or slide to the class. Have students make a list of observations about the picture. Then show the image again and discuss the observations that were made.

            Assessment, ATE p. 30. Place a couple of raisins in a glass of club soda. Have students observe the raisins rising and falling. Ask them to list some observations, inferences, and scientific questions based on the demonstration.

Stage 2:

Extension, ATE p. 30. Have students go outside for 30 minutes and make as many observations about the natural world as they can. From these observations, have them write at least three investigative questions. Ask students to make inferences or to think of possible explanations to answer their investigative questions.

Stage 3: 

Closure, ATE p. 30. Select several full-color advertisements from magazines. Display them at the front of the classroom. Then divide the class into two teams. Have each team take turns analyzing the advertisements and writing examples of unscientific questions, attitudes, or inferences based on the advertisements. The team that comes up with the most examples wins the game.

Homework: (attach/link digital resources):

Assessments: (attach/link copies)

__ Group assessment

__ Observation of process/student work

__ Self-assessment by student

__ Teacher generated assignment

__ Written project

__ Test/Quiz

__ Other: ____________________________________