Observation and Data Types

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Observation

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Using your 5 senses (like sight, hearing, touch, smell) or tools to observe information about something.

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Example of Observation

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The plant’s leaves are drooping.

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Inference

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To imply or make a guess on what’s happening based on your observations.

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Example of Qualitative Data

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The flower looks red, the leaf feels rough.

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Claim: A statement that answers the question or problem.

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A claim should be one sentence, match the question, and not use "because."

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Evidence: Facts, data, or observations that support your claim.

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Evidence must have numbers, include multiple pieces, and be cited.

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Reasoning: Explains how or why the evidence supports the claim.

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Reasoning connects the evidence to the claim, explaining the logic.

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Example of Evidence

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According to Table 1, plants in sunlight grew an average of 15 cm tall. In the dark, they grew about 3 cm (SSJ, 2023).

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Example of Reasoning

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Plants need light to make food. Without light, they cannot make enough energy to grow.

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Key Aspect of Reasoning

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Reasoning should clearly explain the connection between evidence and claim.