Students are instructed to observe a photograph for one minute to form an overall impression before examining individual items, then infer three things from the photograph and discuss whether other students would make the same inferences and why. They are also asked to list any questions the photograph raises in their mind. The activity aims to have students share their responses and discuss the difference between making observations versus inferences when analyzing photographs.

1. Analysis of Digital Images
Observe:
Study the photograph for one minute. Form an overall
impression of the photograph and then examine individual
items.
Infer:
Based on what you have observed, list three things you
might infer from this photograph.
Do you think all the other students in the class will
make the same inferences you have ? Why or why not?
Questions:
What questions does this photograph raise in your mind?
Have students share their responses and bring closure with
a discussion about differences between observation and
inference.
Work Cited:
Bell, Lynn and Park, John C in Technology in the Secondary
Science Classroom. Published by NSTApress in 2008. (Note:
You may download a copy of this book for free at the NSTA
Website.)