Observation vs inference anchor chart

We know how important it is to teach our students to make inferences when they read. It's a tricky concept, and one that needs to be taught again and again. Students often confusing inferring with making predictions and observations, and some are just confused all together! Som

We know how important it is to teach our students to make inferences when they read. It's a tricky concept, and one that needs to be taught again and again. Students often confusing inferring with making predictions and observations, and some are just confused all together! Som

I love middle school. But they think so quickly that they don’t necessarily think about what they are thinking! In science specifically, they have to know the difference between an observation and an inference. Their observations lead to their inferences and generally serve as evidence for their inferences. To introduce this idea, I give them that “angry teacher” stance and eyes and ask them how I am feeling. Without fail, they tell me that I’m mad, angry, upset, that they want to run away…

I've been meaning to share this lesson for a couple of weeks, and I finally got around to uploading my pictures! I've even missed Science Week, but better late than never, right? The very first science lesson I do each year is about observations and inferences. Since we do much of our learning through investigations and experiments, it's really important for students to be able to make observations and inferences and understand the difference. We talk first about ways to record observations…

Qualitative vs quantitative anchor chart

When it’s time to head back to school, I think about all of the expectations that must be taught. Some of those expectations are specific to how we use our science class time. Here are 4 anchor charts that accompany class discussions about our expectations. We can revisit these charts as often as needed throughout ... Read more

Explore strategies for teaching upper elementary students the skill of making inferences. This post offers fun ideas that students will love.

“Making Inferences” anchor chart, 4th grade.