Tools are used to do things better or more easily and to do some things
that could not otherwise be done at all. In technology, tools are used
to observe, measure, and make things.
| NSES Content Standard A
Science as Inquiry: Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry Grades K-4, page 122 Employ simple equipment and tools to gather data and extend the senses. In early years, students develop simple skills, such as how to observe, measure, cut, connect, switch, turn on and off, pour, hold, tie, and hook. Beginning with simple instruments, students can use rulers to measure the length, height, and depth of objects and materials; thermometers to measure temperature; watches to measure time; beam balances and spring scales to measure weight and force; magnifiers to observe objects and organisms; and microscopes to observe the finer details of plants, animals, rocks, and other materials. Children also develop skills in the use of computers and calculators for conducting investigations . NSES Content Standard E Science and Technology: Understanding about science and technology Grades K-4, page 138 Tools help scientists make better observations, measurements, and equipment for investigations. They help scientists see, measure, and do things that they could not otherwise see, measure, and do. |