Palpating Pachyderms: How Do We Interpret Observations?

A branching key is a great way to classify different types of animals and plants! Fifth graders answer several yes/no answers about three different plants. They then create their own key to differentiate between an iris, a rose, and a...

Students observe how to distinguish observations form inferences.  In this examining inferences lesson plan students list observations relating to the activity and discuss the importance of them. 

Learners study the different kinds of observation: fact and opinion.  In this observation instructional activity students complete an activity that allows them to use their senses to make observations. 

Young chemists grow ionic crystals, metallic crystals, and supersaturated crystals in three different lab experiments. Observing these under a microscope allows pupils to compare the various structures. 

Here is the first of four experiments to differentiate among unknown liquids by their behaviors and properties. Pupils observe how different liquids respond to being placed on plastic and paper, and they take notes about their...

Learners participate in an observational hike to study the natural surroundings.  For this observational hike lesson, students hike through a state park and observe the plant and animal life.  Learners learn about appropriate...

Students compare and contrast the role of scientists with that of archaeologists. They also describe the roles of observations and evidence in science.

Do you think you know better? Become a scientist and prove it. Scholars review the evidence for two different theories of the origins of the universe. They notice the empirical observations as well as the inferences to determine which is...

Learners experiment with the combination of vinegar and baking soda. In this applied science lesson, future scientists compare qualitative and quantitative data collected from their exploration. Then they work together to analyze and...

Young entomologists familiarize themselves with the physical characteristics of insects. Composed of two activities, each lesson involves your scientists tapping into their prior knowledge of bugs and making observations of real live...