Observations: What do you see?

Science Process Skills

The tools of Science

Observing

• We observe when we use one or more of our senses to find out about objects, events, or living things. An observation is a fact learned directly through the senses.

Observing

• Five senses– Sight

• Properties, color change, measuring

– Smell• Always waft, ask before you smell

– Hear• Crackling, popping, fizzing

– Touch• Texture, temperature

– Taste• Never taste unless told to do so!!!!!!!!!

How do you make accurate Observations?• Use as many senses as you can when

you observe. Never taste unless you are told to taste something

• Think about how you can use your senses to obtain information about an event.

• Describe only what you observe directly with your senses

• Notice things that are changing. Include observations before, during, and after the change.

Life Saver How many observations can you make?

Types of Observations

• Quantitative– Numbers and measurements

• Records of times• Temperature• Mass• Distance• Volume

• Qualitative– Includes sights, sounds, smells, and

textures

Are you FBI Material

• Candidates for this position must demonstrate outstanding skills of observation and recall. This activity will assess your ability to observe, remember, and communicate details of your observations to others.

Measuring Length (R17)

• Use metric units (R20-R21)

• Do not measure an object from the end of a metric ruler or meter stick use the 1 centimeter mark

• If you take repeated measurements, always measure from the same point each time

• Be Accurate and Precise (R22)

Mass

• A measure of how much matter an object is made of

Measuring Mass

Tips for measuring Mass

• Use a triple beam balance

• Make sure the pan is clean

• Move all weights to left of balance

• Zero out the balance

• You are now ready to measure