Scientists are people who study the world around them. You can be a scientist too! The most important scientist skill is observing. To observe means to look, listen, touch, and pay close attention.
We observe with our senses. Our eyes see colors, shapes, and sizes. Our ears hear sounds. Our hands feel if something is soft or hard. Our nose smells things. Sometimes we taste, but only when a grown-up says it is safe.
Scientists write down what they observe. This is called recording. They use a science journal. A journal is a notebook for notes and drawings. When you record what you see, you can remember it later. You can share it with others too.
This week you will start your own science journal. You will use your senses to observe like a real scientist!
1. What is the most important scientist skill?
2. What do we call the notebook a scientist uses?
3. Which sense do we only use when a grown-up says it is safe?
4. Why do scientists write down what they observe?
Write what each word means in your own words.
Write the best sense for each observation: sight, hearing, touch, or smell.
| Observation | Which sense? |
|---|---|
| The apple is red. | |
| The bell rings loudly. | |
| The rock feels bumpy. | |
| The flower smells sweet. | |
| The ice cube feels cold. | |
| The dog barks two times. |
Write T for true or F for false in each circle.
Pick three objects near you. Draw each one with lots of detail.
1. A good observer notices small details. Name one small detail on your shoe.
2. Why is it better to write an observation down than to just remember it?
1. Scientists ______________ the world by paying close attention.
2. We use our five ______________ to learn about things.
3. Our ______________ help us see colors and shapes.
4. Our ______________ help us hear sounds.
5. Scientists ______________ their findings by writing them down.
6. Notes and drawings go in a science ______________ .
You need: a box or bag, and a grown-up to hide a small object inside.
Do not peek! Reach in and touch the object. Shake the box and listen. Record your observations below, then guess what it is.
| Question | My observation |
|---|---|
| How does it feel? | |
| What sound does it make? | |
| Is it heavy or light? | |
| My guess: what is it? |
Get a notebook. Write your name on the cover. On page one, write the title "My Science Journal." Draw a picture of yourself as a scientist!
You will practice using all five senses to compare objects. Start looking for interesting objects around your home!
| I learned... | Circle one |
|---|---|
| What it means to observe | YES / NOT YET |
| The five senses | YES / NOT YET |
| How to record in a journal | YES / NOT YET |