Observation & Scientific Inquiry
Noticing details, asking questions, making predictions, and conducting simple investigations.
Examples & Achievements
- Observes closely and describes what they see in detail
- Asks "why" and "what if" questions about natural phenomena
- Makes simple predictions ("I think the ice will melt faster in the sun")
- Conducts simple experiments with support (sink/float, magnet testing)
- Compares observations to predictions ("I was right — it did float!")
- Uses simple tools for investigation (magnifying glass, ruler, balance scale)
How to Measure
- Makes a prediction and tests it during a simple science activity
- Describes 3+ observable details about an object or event
- Uses a magnifying glass to observe and describe small details
- Head Start ELOF Scientific Inquiry indicators
- Teaching Strategies GOLD Objective 24 (scientific inquiry)
Sources (4)
- Head Start ELOF
- HighScope
- EYFS
- Montessori