The document outlines key basic science process skills including observing using the five senses, classifying by sorting into groups, measuring to quantify attributes, modeling to represent objects too small or large to see, communicating observations, inferring and predicting explanations and conclusions, using variables to test factors, representing data in tables and graphs, and experimenting by asking questions and planning investigations.

1. Basic Science Process
Skills
Materials in this presentation are protected under the Fair Use Exemption of U.S. Copyright
Law. ©2008 Lisa Williams. All rights reserved

2. Observing
 Using The five senses to describe objects
and events.
 Qualitative: color, shape
 Quantative: length, mass, volume,
temperature

3. Classifying
 Sorting objects or events into groups
 Base groups on common characteristics
or attributes

4. Measuring
 Determining the length, volume, mass,
temperature, or area to describe and
quantify objects.
 Use the proper tools and equipment
 International System of Measurement ( the
Metric System)

5. Modeling
 Used to observe or test an object too
small or too large to see
 Examples: A cell, the solar system, a
tadpole changing to a frog.
 Physical Model
 Conceptual Model– on paper, computer
screen or in your mind.

6. Communicating:
 Sharing observations and explanations or
objects or events with others
 Make a record by drawing, writing,
charting, graphing, counting

7. Inferring and predicting
 Explaining or drawing conclusions based
on observations.
 Telling why something happened
 Tell what you think might happen

8. Using Variables
 Variable – a factor that affects the
outcome of the experiment
 Types
 Manipulated- the factors you change
 Responding – what changes when the
variables change
 Constant - the factor that does not
change

9. Representing Data
 Organizing observations and
measurements
 Table, charts, graphs

10. Experimenting
 Asking a question
 Planning an investigation
 Collecting data
 Forming a conclusion