What are science process skills?
Science process skills are the smart ways we use our mind to explore the world. You already use many of them at home and in school! When you look, listen, sort things and try to explain why, you are thinking like a scientist.
Key idea
We observe using our five senses, classify by grouping things that are alike, and measure to find how big, long or heavy something is.
Thinking further
After observing, we can infer, which means giving a good reason from what we see. We can also predict, which means saying what may happen next. Scientists write down what they find so they can check it again later.
- Observe — use eyes, ears, nose, tongue and skin (safely).
- Measure — use a ruler, clock or balance.
- Infer — explain why, using clues.
- Predict — say what may happen.
When we use these skills carefully, we can answer real questions about the world around us, such as which toy car rolls the fastest or which plant grows taller in the sun. Good scientists practise these skills again and again until they become easy and natural.
Remember
- Never taste or smell unknown things in the lab.
- A prediction is a smart guess, not a wild one.