Observation vs. Inference

Front

What is an observation?

Back

An observation is information gathered using your five senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell).

Front

What is an inference?

Back

An inference is a conclusion or interpretation made based on observations and prior knowledge.

Front

Give an example of an observation.

Back

The sky is blue.

Front

Give an example of an inference.

Back

It is going to rain because the sky is cloudy.

Front

What senses do we use to make observations?

Back

We use sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.

Front

How can you tell if a statement is an observation?

Back

A statement is an observation if it describes something that can be seen, heard, or measured.

Front

How can you tell if a statement is an inference?

Back

A statement is an inference if it interprets or explains observations.

Front

What is the difference between observation and inference?

Back

Observation is about what you see or measure, while inference is about what you conclude from those observations.

Front

Is 'The boy has injuries to his knees' an observation or inference?

Back

Observation.

Front

Is 'The boy learned his lesson about wheelies' an observation or inference?

Back

Inference.