Introduction to Life Science

What is science?

Science is … A process of solving problems to gain an understanding of the natural world

What is life science? Life science is… The study of all living things in their environment Life Science

Observations information gathered by one or more of the senses sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste

Inferences a logical interpretation or explanation based on prior knowledge and experience

Make Observations and Inferences

Make Observations and Inferences

a series of steps that are used to investigate a natural occurrence Scientific Method a series of steps that are used to investigate a natural occurrence

1. State the Problem Develop a question or problem that can be solved through an experiment

2. Collect Information Gather information about the experiment that you want to carry out.

3. Form a Hypothesis Predict a possible answer to the problem or question. If/then statement ex) If soil temperatures rise, then plant growth will increase.

4. Design an Experiment Develop and follow a procedure. Include a detailed materials list. The outcome must be measurable.

5. Record/Analyze Results Modify the procedure if needed. Confirm the results by retesting. Include tables, graphs, and photographs.

6. Form a Conclusion Include a statement that accepts or rejects the hypothesis. Make recommendations for further study and possible improvements to the procedure

Variables vs. Constants

Variable a factor in an experiment which can change temperature, length, height, growth amount of light, time etc.

Types of Variables Independent Variable 2. Dependent Variable is a factor that’s intentionally varied by the experimenter 2. Dependent Variable is the factor that may change as a result of changes made in the independent variable.

Control Group the control group is the group that serves as the standard of comparison.

Constant A factor that is kept the same throughout the experiment

Line Graph

When do I use a line graph? Line graphs are used to track changes over short and long periods of time. Line graphs can also be used to compare changes over the same period of time for more than one group.

Line Graph Rules Step 1: Identify the variables Independent Variable (purposefully changed by the experimenter) Dependent Variable (changes with the independent variable and is measured)

Line Graph Rules Step 2: Determine the variable range Subtract the lowest data value from the highest data value for each variable.

Line Graph Rules Step 3: Determine the scale of the graph Determine the numerical value for each grid unit that best fits the range of each variable.

Line Graph Rules Step 4: Number and label each axis and title the graph. Give the graph a title.

Line Graph Rules Step 5: Determine the data points and plot on the graph

Line Graph Rules Step 6: Draw the graph Draw a curve or a line that best fits the data points.

Bar Graph

When do I use a bar graph? When measuring or showing information that reflects quantities or the frequency of things

Bar Graph Rules Step 1: Identify the variables Independent variable (purposefully changed by the experimenter) Dependent variable (changes with the independent variable and is measured)

Bar Graph Rules Step 2: Determine the variable range Subtract the lowest data value from the highest data value for the dependent variable.

Bar Graph Rules Step 3: Determine the scale of the graph Determine the numerical value for each grid unit that best fits the range of each variable.

Bar Graph Rules Step 4: Number and label the y axis, label the x axis, and title the graph

Bar Graph Rules Step 5: Determine the data points and create the bar graph