Observations to Inferences 1.4

Title: Observations to Inferences

Author: Cota

Week: Oct. 12, 2007

Unit/Lesson Plan #: chapter 2 lesson 2

Unit theme: Scientific thinking, observing, inferring and hypothesizing

Textbook references:

Learning objectives:

 Distinguish observations from inferences

classify questions accroding to whether or not they lead to scientific discoveries

suggest invetigative questions 

Key Questions, Concepts, or Themes:

 Evidence of models and explanations

Stage 1:

Reteaching, 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.

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:

Homework: (attach/link digital resources):

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.

Assessments: (attach/link copies)

__ Group assessment

__ Observation of process/student work

__ Self-assessment by student

__ Teacher generated assignment

__ Written project

__ Test/Quiz

__ Other: ____________________________________