What is the difference between making inferences and making observations? Young climatologists refer to a PowerPoint to make observations on each slide. They record their observations in a provided worksheet before drawing a conclusion—or making an inference—about the observations. 

Concepts

inferences, making observations, observational skills, climate change

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Use as an introduction to the scientific method
• Put learners into groups as they look at the presentation and write down observations together

Classroom Considerations

• The second lesson in a five-part unit on climate change
• Can be used alone or with the other lessons in the series​

Pros

• Clarifies the differences between making observations and making inferences
• Comes with a detailed plan, an activity, a PowerPoint, worksheets, curriculum guide for the entire unit, and answer keys

Cons

• None

Common Core

RST.6-8.3 RST.6-8.7 RST.6-8.8