It turned left is an observation; why it turned is another question

Put the recorded movement in one column and possible explanations in another. Children can then see which statements describe what was noticed and which would need further evidence to establish a cause.

'It turned left' is an observation; a proposed cause needs testing.

Keep the two kinds of statement separate

Use two columns to preserve the distinction. An explanation should be linked to evidence rather than written as though it was directly seen.

Describe visible movement. Suggest an explanation. Identify evidence still needed.

Confident language does not establish a cause. Which statement reports an observation?

Sort statement cards.

Resources

• Paper aircraft test – Forces and Flight Major Activity — Use the aircraft investigation for a follow-up comparison with a recorded procedure.

Further reading

• CSIRO — inquiry and explicit teaching

Read next

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