Chapter 1: Evolution, Themes of Biology, and Scientific Inquiry

Question 1

Biology

Answer 1

scientific study of life

Question 2

Scientific Method

Answer 2

Process of science

Question 3

Science

Answer 3

way to know and understand the natural world

Question 4

Data

Answer 4

Recorded Observations

Question 5

Qualitative Data

Answer 5

Recorded descriptions

Question 6

Quantitative Data

Answer 6

Expressed numerically, organized into tables and graphs

Question 7

Hypothesis

Answer 7

an explanation, based on observations and assumptions, that leads to a testable prediction

Question 8

Experiment

Answer 8

a scientific test carried out under controlled conditions

Question 9

Inductive Reasoning

Answer 9

draws conclusions through logical processes; repeated observations

Question 10

Deductive Reasoning

Answer 10

uses general premises to make specific predictions

Question 11

Controlled Experiment

Answer 11

one that is designed to compare an experimental group with a control group

Question 12

Experimental Variables

Answer 12

feature or quantity that varies in an experiment

Question 13

Independent Variable

Answer 13

One the researchers manipulate

Question 14

Dependent Variable

Answer 14

Predicted to be affected by the independent variable

Question 15

Scientific Theory

Answer 15

broad scope statement heavily tested and supported by a huge body of evidence

Question 16

Steps of the Scientific Method:

Answer 16

Ask a Question, Research, Hypothesize, Test, Analyze Results/Conclude, Share results

Question 17

Science is a powerful tool, but not perfect. What are some things that science cannot help us with? What questions can we not answer with science?

Answer 17

-Limited to observable and quantifiable subjects
-Cannot explain supernatural phenomena
-Cannot explain theological ideas/beings
Ex: God, ghosts, spirits, premonitions, “vibes”

Question 18

A hypothesis must be ________. What does this mean?

Answer 18

-Testable
-Must be able to be measured/tested
Ex: “The wind is God’s farts” is not a hypothesis

Question 19

Objects of Scientific Study must be ______&_______. What does this mean?

Answer 19

-Observable & Quantifiable
-Must be able to be observed/recorded/recreated
Ex: A bear is observable and quantifiable. Big foot is not.

Question 20

One feature of a well-designed experiment is the use of a control. What is a control, and why is it important? What does a control tell the scientist about the results of their experiment?

Answer 20

• Control is the factor in the experiment that is not being manipulated
• Important because it rules out factors other than the independent variable
• Control group tells scientist that his results are not because of outside factors

Question 21

What is the goal of science?

Answer 21

To understand natural phenomena