Observation

High school (ages 12+)
Thinking & Learning

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/observation

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the core principle?Active acquisition of information from a primary source through direct engagement
2. What is the philosophical basis?Rooted in empiricism, emphasizing knowledge derived from sensory experience
3. What is observation in science?Observation is when we carefully look, listen, or use tools to gather information about something. It is the first step in science and helps us build knowledge.
4. Why do scientists use tools like telescopes and microscopes?Scientists use tools like telescopes and microscopes to see things that are too small or far away. These tools make their observations more precise and help them test ideas.

Empiricism: The theory that all knowledge is derived from sense-experience.
Phenomena: Observable facts or events, especially ones that are unusual or remarkable.
Qualitative Observation: Describing non-numerical characteristics such as color, texture, or behavior.
Quantitative Observation: Involving numerical data obtained through counting or measurement.