O b s e r v i n g i n S c i e n c e P a g e |1
Name_____________________________________
Observing in Science
Purpose: To practice using the scientific skills of qualitative observation, developing questions,
and communicating ideas.
Materials:
Whole milk
Food coloring (4 colors)
Flat dish
Toothpick
Dishwashing soap
What to do:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Put the dish on a flat surface.
Fill the dish halfway with whole milk.
Drop one drop of food coloring into the milk.
Use the diagram as a guide.
Discus with your partner: what observations can
you make about milk and food coloring?
6. Share your observations with your table.
7. Dip one end of the toothpick into the dishwashing soap.
8. Touch the milk in the middle of the dish with the soapy end of the toothpick (at the star).
9. Now what observations can you and your partner make?
10. Share your observations with your table.
11. Think about to yourself: How do we observe in science? Why do we observe in science?
As we observed the milk, what questions came to mind? How can we find answers to these
questions?
12.Discuss your thoughts with your partner, then your table. Be prepared to share and
discuss your ideas with the class.
M. Poarch 2013
science-class.net
Permission granted to copy for non-profit, educational use only.
O b s e r v i n g i n S c i e n c e P a g e |2
M. Poarch 2013
science-class.net
Permission granted to copy for non-profit, educational use only.