Bell work You are asked to write a biology textbook. What would your OWN definition of “science” be?

The Methods of Science A. Science studies natural patterns

1.Science is classified into three main categories: Life Science

Biology “the study of life”

Many branches of Biology

Earth Science

Physical Science

2. Science explains the natural world; explanations can change over time…for example?

– Science also aims to use those explanations to understand patterns in nature and to make useful predictions about natural events. –What are some examples of patterns that scientists use to make predictions?

3. Scientists investigate nature by observations, experimentation, or modeling

Science deals only with the natural world. Science must be based on evidence, not belief. Evidence comes from data and is constantly being re-collected to ensure its validity.

Science, Change, and Uncertainty –Despite all of our scientific knowledge, much of nature remains a mystery. –Almost every major scientific discovery raises more questions than it answers. This constant change shows that science continues to advance.

–Learning about science means understanding what we know and what we don’t know. –Science rarely “proves” anything in absolute terms –Scientists aim for the best understanding of the natural world that current methods can reveal.

B. Scientific method - organized set of investigation procedures

1. State a problem

2. Gather information

3. Form a hypothesis or educated guess based on knowledge and observation

4. An experiment with variables is a common way to test a hypothesis

5. Analyze data from an experiment or investigation

6. Form a conclusion based on data

7. Reduce bias by keeping accurate records, using measurable data, and repeating the experiment

Prepare for Lab Tomorrow Read over your lab Answer the Pre-Lab Questions Don’t forget your lab safety contract!!!