Foundation Comparing Predictions and Observations Activities

Australian Curriculum Alignment

What Students Will Learn

• Revisit a prediction after an investigation.
• Compare what was predicted with what was observed.
• Recognise that predictions can match or differ from results.
• Compare field-work observations with earlier predictions.
• Use a table to record a prediction and an observation.
• Explain what was learned from the comparison.

Teaching Activities

1. Prediction Revisit

Return to a prediction after testing and discuss whether it matched.

2. Same or Different?

Use picture cards to compare predicted and observed outcomes.

3. Field Work Comparison

Compare predicted plants and animals with those actually observed outside.

4. Prediction Table

Draw or dictate a prediction and observation side by side.

5. Class Results Discussion

Compare students' results and notice similarities and differences.

6. What Did We Learn?

Complete simple sentence starters such as 'I thought...' and 'I observed...'.

7. Improve Next Time

Discuss one change that could make the investigation clearer or fairer.

Questions to Ask Students

• What did you predict?
• What did you observe?
• Were they the same or different?
• What surprised you?
• What did you learn?
• What could you change next time?

Simple Assessment Ideas

• Observe students during practical activities and discussions.
• Ask students to draw, match, sort, point, demonstrate or explain.
• Use a short exit task linked to the curriculum code.
• Allow an adult to record a child's spoken response when needed.
• Look for correct use of simple science vocabulary.

Supporting Different Learners

Additional support

• Use real objects, photographs and simple picture cards.
• Model one step at a time.
• Provide sentence starters and two-choice questions.
• Allow students to respond by pointing, matching, drawing or speaking.

Extension

• Ask students to explain the reason for their choice.
• Invite students to compare two examples.
• Ask students to record observations in a table or labelled drawing.
• Encourage students to create and share a new question.

AC9SFI04 Worksheets and Teaching Resources

View the complete collection of teacher slides, student practice pages, revision activities and printable worksheets for AC9SFI04.

Topic Summary

AC9SFI04 supports Foundation students through practical, age-appropriate science experiences. Use real objects, discussion, observation, drawing, sorting and simple recording tasks to build confidence and understanding.