1. What is the difference between an observation and an inference?
- An observation is something you directly notice or perceive using your senses, while an inference is a conclusion or interpretation drawn from observations.
2. Give an example of an observation and an inference.
- Observation: The sky is cloudy and grey.
- Inference: It might rain soon because of the cloudy sky.
3. Why is it important to distinguish between observations and inferences?
- It is important to distinguish between observations and inferences because observations are objective and based on facts, while inferences can be subjective and based on personal interpretation, leading to potential biases or inaccuracies.
4. List three ways to improve your observation skills.
- Practice mindfulness and pay attention to details in your surroundings.
- Take note of patterns and trends in your observations.
- Engage in activities that require keen observation skills, such as bird watching or art.
5. How can you determine if an inference is valid or not?
- You can determine if an inference is valid by evaluating the evidence or observations it is based on, ensuring that they support the conclusion logically. Additionally, you can consider alternative explanations or possibilities to test the validity of the inference.
Chapter 2 exercise answers
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