1 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes KEY CONCEPT

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes KEY CONCEPT Science is a way of thinking, questioning, and gathering evidence.

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes Like all science, biology is a process of inquiry. • Scientists make careful and systematic observations. • Scientists form a hypothesis as a possible answer to a question. • Scientists use experiments to test their hypotheses. • Scientists collect, record, and analyze data (can be quantitative or qualitative).

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes • Scientists use statistical analysis to determine if their data is significant of not. • If data does not support the hypothesis , it is rejected. • Experimental results are evaluated by a process called peer review. • If the results and conclusions are accepted by the scientific community they can be published.

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes Biologists use experiments to test hypotheses. • Observational studies allow scientists to describe a phenomenon without interfering. • Ex. Scientists use computers to collect data, or study the behavior of Gorillas by observing them.

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes • Experiments allow scientists to determine what causes a phenomenon.

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes • Experiments contain 3 types of variables. – Independent variables are manipulated. – Dependent variables are observed and measured. – Constants are conditions that are kept the same.

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes Complete Experimental Variables and Extension Questions sheets.

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes A theory explains a wide range of observations. • Theories explain a wide range of observations and experimental results. • A theory is supported by a wide range of scientific evidence. • Theories can change based on new evidence.

1. 3 Scientific Thinking and Processes Exercises • What role do hypotheses play in scientific inquiry? • What is the difference between an independent variable and a dependent variable? • How is the meaning of theory in science different from the everyday use of the term? • How are hypotheses and theories related? • Give examples of different ways in which observations are used in scientific inquiry. • Why is the statement “All life is made of cells” an example of a theory? Explain.