Simple tools, such as a magnifying glass and a balance can extend the observations that people can make. Nonstandard units such as paper clips, a student’s foot, index cards, etc., can be used to measure the length of objects. The mass of two objects can be compared by holding each object in a different hand. The volume of various liquids can be compared by pouring them in cups of the same size. Variations in temperature of different objects can be compared by the difference that is felt when each object is touched. Variations in air temperature can be compared by observing the differences one feels when in different environments (e.g., inside the classroom vs. outside on the playground in winter, inside the freezer compartment of a refrigerator vs. inside a kitchen). An inference is a tentative explanation based on background knowledge and available data. A conclusion is a summary statement based on data from the results of an investigation. Questions about what is observed can be developed. A prediction is a forecast about what may happen in some future situation. It is based on information and evidence. A prediction is different from a guess.
Simple tools, such as a magnifying glass and a balance can extend the observations that people can make. Nonstandard units such as paper clips, a student’s foot, index cards, etc., can be used to measure the length of objects. The mass of two objects can be compared by holding each object in a different hand. The volume of various liquids can be compared by pouring them in cups of the same size. Variations in temperature of different objects can be compared by the difference that is felt when each object is touched. Variations in air temperature can be compared by observing the differences one feels when in different environments (e.g., inside the classroom vs. outside on the playground in winter, inside the freezer compartment of a refrigerator vs. inside a kitchen). An inference is a tentative explanation based on background knowledge and available data. A conclusion is a summary statement based on data from the results of an investigation. Questions about what is observed can be developed. A prediction is a forecast about what may happen in some future situation. It is based on information and evidence. A prediction is different from a guess.
science1.docx