Observing
Using the sense of hearing, touch, smell, taste and sight to collect information about an object or a phenomenon.
- the sense of touch ---- non-metals are brittle and metals are malleable.
- the sense of sight ---- color change of the indicator during titration
- the sense of smell ----- the bad smell of ammonia gas
Classifying
Using observations to group objects or events according to their similarities or differences.
Note: Classification in science must be mutually exclusive.
Measuring and Using Numbers
Making quantitative observations using numbers and tools with standardised units. Measuring makes observation more accurate.
Note: In science, measurements mostly carried out more than twice in order to get a more accurate result.
Inferring
Using past experiences or previously collected data to draw conclusions and make explanations of events.
Predicting
Stating the outcome of a future event based on prior knowledge gained through experiences or collected data.
Note : Predicting is different from guessing as predicting is based on data collected and the result is quite accurate while guessing is without based on any information.
Communicating
Using words or graphic symbols such as tables, graphs, figures or models to describe an action, object or event.
Using Space-Time Relationship
Describing changes in parameter with time. Examples of parameters are location, direction, shape, size, volume, weight and mass.
Example : Teachers may give the dimension of the classroom is 10m x 12m. If the dimension of a chair is 30cm x 30cm, then how many chairs can be located in this classroom?
Defining Operationally
Defining all variables as they are used in the experiment by describing what must be done and what should be observed.
Example: In order to let students understand what is acid, teacher may definite it operationally before define it in a formal manner. Teacher may say that acid is a substances which may turn the blue litmus paper to red and it taste sour. This method will make students easier to understand the concepts.
Controlling Variables
Identifying the fixed variable, manipulated variable, and responding variable in an investigation. The manipulated variable is changed to observe its relationship with the responding variable. At the same time, the fixed variable is kept constant.
Hypothesizing
Making a general statement about the relationship between a manipulated variable and a responding variable in order to explain an event or observation. This statement can be tested to determine its validity.
Experimenting
Making a general statement about the relationship between a manipulated variable and a responding variable in order to explain an event or observation. This statement can be tested to determine its validity.
