Separate Observations From Inferences

Start with the two question sheets, then move to Plan a Fair Test and Analyze Its Data. Draw a Conclusion From Claim and Evidence is the longest sheet at 3 pages, so allow extra time.

Sort 12 statements about animal tracks into observations and inferences, then write four of your own. The directions on the page read: Read the box and study the tracks in the mud. Sort the 12 statements by writing each statement number in the correct box. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade scientific method, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

A testable question can be answered by an experiment that measures something. Turn Observations Into Testable Questions has students mark questions testable or not and rewrite the ones that cannot be tested.

The independent variable is what you change, and the dependent variable is what you measure. Controlled variables are kept the same. Turn a Question Into a Testable Hypothesis has students name all three for earthworm questions.

Drop an outlier only if you can name a mistake in that trial, and report that you dropped it. Analyze Repeated Trials and Outliers finds means and ranges with and without an outlier.

Use exact numbers and units from the data. Write a Lab Report Results Section has students sort scattered notes, write exactly 5 sentences from a bean sprout graph and revise vague sentences.