Observing and Measuring

To be scientific you must be a good observer. Use all your senses.


Sight
 Smell
Hearing
Taste

SAFETY FIRST - In the Science laboratory only taste or smell something if your teacher says it is safe to do so.

Observing

Crisps are a wonderful way to eat potatoes. Make a list of all the observations you would make while eating your favourite flavour.

Measuring

Which of these two lines is the longer?

Try using a ruler.

Observing is important but in Science there are often times when we need to measure things as well as observe them.

To measure things we need measuring instruments.

What measuring instruments would you use to measure the following?

  • The length of a piece of string
  • The temperature of water in a beaker
  • The mass of a stone
  • The swing of a pendulum (time)
  • The volume of water in a test tube

What are the measuring units of the instruments you have chosen?

Click the 'Test Tube' for a printable answer grid.

Click here for answers

Return to Investigations in Science
Home