Grade 7 Integrated Science SCIENTIFIC INVESTIGATION – Basic Science Skills Notes

Science is the study of the physical and natural world around us.It involves observing  and experimenting to understand the physical and natural world.We carry out experiments and make observations to understand science.

Basic skills in science

1. Observation skills
   Is the process of gathering information about our surrounding using our sense organs.This is the most basic skill in science. Observations are made by using the 5 senses.We observe natural occurrences or results from an experiments.Good observations are essential in learning the other science process skills.
   Examples:
   The learner will be blind folded and make observations using the sense of touch.
   The learner will create observations about a coin using the 5 senses.
   The learner will mix primary colors to create more colors.
2. Communication skills
   We communicate to share our observations with others.The communication must be clear and effective for other people to understand the information.It is important to be able to share our experiences. This can be done with graphs, diagrams, maps, and spoken word.
   Examples:
   The learner will create a line graph showing the relationship between speed and the mass of a marble.
   The learner will discuss possible errors with other classmates.
3. Classification skills
   It is the process of grouping things in nature based on observation.Things in science are grouped based on similarities,differences and interrelationship.After making observations it is important to notice similarities, differences, and group objects according to a purpose. It is important to create order to help comprehend the number of objects, events, and living things in the world.
   Examples:
   The learner will use a magnet to classify objects as magnetic or nonmagnetic.
   The learner will use a balance and sort objects according to mass.
   The learner will combine different liquids with water to determine which is more or less dense.
4. Inference skills
   An inference is an explanation based on an observation. It is a link between what is observed and what is already known.
   Examples:
   The learner will write a conclusion at the end of each investigation.
   The learner will create inferences about observations they made about a mystery object. I infer it is solid rather than hollow.
5. Measurement skills
   Helps us to communicate and give precise information about the nature of an object or a substance.Measuring is important in collecting, comparing, and interpreting data. It helps us classify and communicate with others. The metric system should be used to help understand the scientific world.We use measuring instruments to take measurement.
   Examples:
   The learner will find the mass of different liquids that have the same volume.
   The learner will use technology to find the speed of a toy truck.
   The learner will measure the distance a marble travels.
6. Prediction skills
   It is an educated guess based on good observations and inferences about an observed event or prior knowledge.We predict future observations.We base our prediction on the result of the previous observation.
   Examples:
   The learner will predict what is a box based on observations using the sense of touch.
   The learner will write a hypothesis about the effect of increasing the salt on the buoyancy of an egg.
7. Manipulative skill
   Is the ability to handle or control things in a skillful manner.In science, manipulative skills emphasize the use and handling of scientific apparatus and chemical substances during scientific investigation in the laboratory.

Importance of reading packing labels on products/quantities

• It helps in knowing the quantity of the product
• It helps in knowing the product specifications like:
  • Conditions for storage
  • Date of expiry
  • How to use the product
  • Possible side effects
  • What to do in case of emergencies
  • How to dispose the product among others

Application of basic skills in science

1. Doing experiment.We are able to manipulate apparatus,instruments and materials to test for concepts in science.We are able to make the right observation and record the correct data.
2. Understanding concepts in nature.We use the basic skill in science to observe and study nature and natural processes.This helps us to understand how the universe functions and how we can utilise natural resources to improve our lives.
3. Solving problems in our lives.We identify problems in nature and conduct an experiment on how to solve the problem.
4. Self reliance.Basic science skills helps us observe,identify problems in science,brainstorm on how the problem can be solved,come up with a strategy on how to solve the problem and apply the skills to solve the problem on our own.This makes us self reliant.