Student Worksheet — Session 1: What Do You Notice?

Data Science for Young Minds · Grade 3 · Ages 8–9
Part 1 — Vocabulary (write the definition in your own words)
Observation
Attribute
Sorting
Pattern
Category
Opinion
Part 2 — Object Sort Challenge

Sort your objects 3 different ways. Fill in each sort below.

Sort #Attribute I usedGroup names I madeHow many objects in each group?
1
2
3 ⭐
(2 attributes!)

Which sort was hardest? Why?

Part 3 — Observation vs. Opinion

Read each statement. Write O for Observation or Op for Opinion.

StatementO or Op?
The shell is white and bumpy.
This rock is really cool.
The coin is round and silver with a ridged edge.
The button is cute and pretty.
The eraser is pink, rectangular, and about 4 cm long.
This is the best object in the whole bag.
Part 4 — My Observation Journal

Choose one object from today's sort. Write 3 observations AND draw a sketch.

My 3 Observations (facts only — no opinions!):

1.  
2.  
3.  

Object name:  

My Sketch:

Draw here

Label the attributes you observe on your sketch.

Part 5 — Think About It

Why is observation the FIRST step in data science?

Can the same object belong to more than one category? Give an example from today.

Take-Home Challenge — Pattern Spotter!

Tonight, pick one spot in your home (kitchen table, bookshelf, desk). Spend 3 minutes observing carefully.

Write 5 observations (facts, no opinions)
Find at least 1 pattern you notice
Make a small sketch of what you observed

Bring your observations to share next session!

My pattern: