Observation vs. 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 directly measured.

Front

What is an inference?

Back

An inference is a conclusion or interpretation made based on observations and prior knowledge. It goes beyond what is directly observed.

Front

Example of an observation: The sky is blue.

Back

This is a factual statement that can be directly observed.

Front

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

Back

This conclusion is based on the observation of wet ground and prior knowledge about rain.

Front

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

Back

Observation

Front

Observation or Inference? The child is crying because they are hungry.

Back

Inference

Front

Observation or Inference? The leaves are changing color in the fall.

Back

Observation

Front

Observation or Inference? The dog barked because it saw a stranger.

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 observations.

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.