Question

observations and inferences: what scientists see and think

1. list three observations that sarah made about nibbles the hamster.
2. what inference did sarah make about why nibbles cheeks were puffed out? what observation led her to this inference?
3. explain the difference between an observation and an inference using your own words.

Explanation:

1. Without the actual content of Sarah's observations about Nibbles, we can't list them. But observations are factual things seen, heard, etc. For example, "Nibbles has brown fur", "Nibbles is running on a wheel", "Nibbles is eating a seed".
2. An inference is a conclusion based on observations. If Sarah saw Nibbles' cheeks were puffed out and also saw it gathering food, she might infer that Nibbles was storing food in its cheeks. The observation of gathering food led to this inference.
3. An observation is a direct - perception of something using the senses (sight, hearing, touch, etc.). An inference is a logical conclusion drawn from one or more observations.

Answer:

1. Answers may vary. For example: Nibbles has black eyes; Nibbles is small; Nibbles is active.
2. Answers may vary. For example: Inference - Nibbles is storing food in its cheeks. Observation - Seeing Nibbles pick up food items.
3. An observation is what you directly perceive with your senses. An inference is a conclusion you draw based on those observations.