Activity

Observation in science – three-level reading guide

In this activity, students use a three-level reading guide to locate information about the role of observation in science from the text of an article. They interpret what the text means and then apply the information to consider ways they could research the frequency of earthworms in their area.

Dr Nicole Schon outside on grass looking for earthworms by hand.

Hand sorting earthworms

Dr Nicole Schon looks for earthworms by hand sorting through the soil. This is an accurate but laborious method to identify and quantify earthworm species at a given location.

Rights: Ross Gray

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

  • locate information in the text

  • interpret what the text means

  • apply the information.

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

  • introduction/background notes

  • what you need

  • what to do

  • student handout.

Nature of Science

Students expand their understanding of the importance of observation, both qualitative and quantitative, in science. They make links to ways scientists use observation and research to develop their understanding about phenomena and to guide their ongoing investigations.

Published:29 June 2015