Use a variety of recording devices for recording observations and data (e.g., paper & pencil, voice recorders, cameras, video cameras, art materials, etc.)

Model how to record observations using different types of recording devices (e.g., how to take and save digital photographs, how to draw realistic life drawings, etc.).

Use a variety of organizational tools for recording observations and data (e.g. charts, labelled diagrams, journal pages, etc.)

Model how to record observations using different tools. Have students begin by using educator-prepared tools for recording information (e.g., tally charts, science journals, observation charts, etc.).

See: Data to Tables, K-W-L and Sequence Organizer Learning Strategies

Select appropriate recording devices and organizational tools for a given inquiry situation

Assist students with selecting appropriate recording devices and organizational tools for recording observations and data collected during inquiries (e.g., when to use a tally chart vs. when to make a time-lapse video or keep a journal, etc.)

Systematically record qualitative and quantitative observations and data

Encourage students to keep complete, detailed records using the chosen recording systems (e.g., taking photographs every day, making labelled diagrams of plant parts, filling in all parts of a recording chart, etc.) such as by completing the chart provided in the Data to Tables Learning Strategy.

Accurately record qualitative and quantitative data

Encourage students to be precise and accurate when they record observations and data gathered through inquiries (see Precision and Accuracy in the Science Processes section) (e.g., students include units of measurement with quantitative data, correctly label apparatus, take photographs with data and time stamps, etc.).