Fact: Something known to be true, information that can be proven.
Opinion: A personal belief, attitude, or view.
Converting opinions to facts:
1. Use comparison (ex. OPINION=It’s cold in here – compared to what? FACT= It’s colder in here than outside.)
2. Use measurements – length, weight, volume, mass, time, temperature, etc.. (ex. OPINION=This book is heavy. FACT= This book weighs 15 pounds.)
Comparison: Observations that notice what is similar (alike) and different between two or more items.
Prediction: a statement about the way things will happen in the future.
Inference: The use of evidence and study to reach a conclusion. All inferences do not have to be true. They are a best guess.
Ex. Tommy just came from explore classes and is sweating and breathing hard. Based on these clues you make an inference that he has just came from PE.
Scientific Observations: Done using the 5 senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, and sound)
Should be done with as much detail as possible.
Convert opinions to facts if possible
Qualitative: (Quality) Observations or data based on qualities and characteristics
Quantitative (Quantity) Observations based on measurements and numbers