Scientific Observations and Inferences

Data

• Facts, figures, and other evidence gathered through observation.

• Random numbers generated by a computer.

• A collection of unrelated information.

• A type of software used for data analysis.

Quantitative Observation

• Observation that deals with numbers or amounts.

• Observation that is based on personal feelings.

• Observation that involves qualitative data.

• Observation that is purely theoretical.

Scientific Models

• Creating representations of objects or processes

• Describing historical events

• Analyzing statistical data

• Predicting future trends

Inference

• A conclusion drawn from evidence and reasoning.

• An explanation of what you have observed.

• A statement of fact without interpretation.

• A prediction about future events based on past data.

Conclusion

• A statement that introduces a hypothesis.

• A summary of what you learned from an experiment based on data and observations.

• A detailed explanation of the experimental procedure.

• A list of all the materials used in the experiment.

There is a lot of noise coming from the gym.

• Quantitative observation

• Qualitative observation

• Experimental observation

• Theoretical observation

There's a lot of noise coming from the gym because there is a volleyball game.

• Inference

• Observation

• Conclusion

• Assumption

Qualitative Observation

• Observation that deals with descriptions that cannot be expressed in numbers.

• Observation that involves counting and measuring.

• Observation that focuses on numerical data and statistics.

• Observation that is based on personal opinions and feelings.

Classifying

• Grouping together items that are alike in some way.

• Arranging items in a random order.

• Identifying the size of items.

• Sorting items based on color.

Science

• A way of knowing about the natural world.

• A collection of myths and legends.

• A method for creating art.

• A system for organizing thoughts.