ObservationsBIOLOGY 1

Types of observations/research:

Qualitative: when the object is described in terms of quality. (It was green. It smelled like candy.)

Quantitative: when the object is described or measured in concrete numerical terms. (there are 30 students in my class. I ate 1 pound of potatoes.)

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The cup had a mass of 454 grams.

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The cup had a mass of 454 grams.

Quantitative

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The temperature outside is 25° C.

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The temperature outside is 25° C.

Quantitative

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

It is warm outside.

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

It is warm outside.

Qualitative

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The tree is 30 feet tall.

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The tree is 30 feet tall.

Quantitative

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The building is taller than the tree.

Determine which are qualitative and which are quantitative:

The building is taller than the tree.

Qualitative

When does an observation become an inference?

Observation: Using one or more of your senses to gather information and record facts.

Example: There is one projector in the room.

When does on observation become an inference?

Inference: logical interpretation based upon prior knowledge and experience.

Example: Since students are wearing coats, it must be cold outside.

In a Lab Setting

Record your data as observations and facts, NOT inferences.

Inferences can be used in your analysis and conclusion portion of your lab report.

Now, lets practice!

Observation/inference practice