Observation and Inference

Front

What is an observation?

Back

An observation is a statement based on what you can see, hear, smell, taste, or touch. It is factual and can be measured or recorded.

Front

What is an inference?

Back

An inference is a conclusion or interpretation made based on observations and prior knowledge. It goes beyond the immediate data.

Front

Example of an observation: The sky is blue.

Back

This is a direct observation based on visual perception.

Front

Example of an inference: The ground is wet, so it must have rained.

Back

This is an inference because it interprets the observation of wet ground.

Front

Observation or Inference? The cat is sleeping on the couch.

Back

Observation.

Front

Observation or Inference? The flowers are blooming, so spring is here.

Back

Inference.

Front

Observation or Inference? The temperature is 30 degrees Celsius today.

Back

Observation.

Front

Observation or Inference? He is wearing a jacket, so he must be cold.

Back

Inference.

Front

What is the difference between observation and inference?

Back

Observation is based on direct evidence, while inference is a conclusion drawn from that evidence.

Front

Why are observations important in science?

Back

Observations are crucial in science as they provide the data needed to form hypotheses and conduct experiments.