1. Introduction to Biology

2. Observations
Using one or more of the five senses to gather information called evidence or data:
Touch
Sight
Smell
Hear
Taste (ONLY WHEN SAFE!)

3. Inference
Logical interpretation based on prior knowledge and experience
Example: if you test different samples of reservoir water and the results are clean, you can infer that it’s all clean

4. Observation vs. Inference (copy data table below)
Statement Observation Inference
Object A is round and orange. X
Object A is a basketball.
Object C is round and black and white.
Object C is larger than Object B.
Object B is smooth.
Object B is a table-tennis ball.
Each object is used in a different sport.

5. The Goals of Science To investigate and understand nature
To explain events in nature
To use those explanations to make useful predictions

6. Biological Topics
Macromolecules (lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids, proteins)
Enzymes (speed up chemical processes)
Ecology (environment around us & how it interacts)
Evolution (how things change over time)
Cells (smallest units of life)
DNA (genetic basis for all living things)
Genetics (how you get your traits)
Anatomy (how the human body works)