Scientific Foundations
What is the scientific method
The scientific method is a systematic process used to investigate questions through observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, data collection, analysis, and conclusions.
Approximately how many million years ago did amphibians first move onto land?
360 million years ago.
Why is the coquí considered unique?
It develops directly on land
What can declining frog populations tell scientists?
That environmental conditions may be deteriorating.
What is the function of the liver?
Produces bile, detoxifies blood, stores nutrients, and regulates metabolism.
Why do scientists use observations before developing a hypothesis?
Observations provide evidence that helps scientists identify patterns, ask questions, and develop testable hypotheses.
Name two adaptations that help frogs survive both on land and in water.
Lungs, and webbed feet
What does the scientific name Eleutherodactylus mean?
Free toes
. Explain how frogs connect biology and culture.
Frogs play important ecological roles while also holding cultural significance, particularly the coquí in Puerto Rico.
What is stored in the gallbladder?
bile
What is a hypothesis?
A hypothesis is a testable prediction or explanation based on observations.
Why are frogs classified as amphibians?
Because they spend part of their life in water and part on land.
Why doesn't the coquí need webbed feet?
It is a tree-dwelling species that climbs rather than swims.
How might climate change affect frog populations?
Rising temperatures, altered rainfall, habitat loss, disease, and drought can reduce frog populations.
Which organ is the first major site of chemical digestion?
The stomach
Why is collecting data important during a dissection?
Data provide objective evidence that supports scientific observations and conclusions.
What is the largest organ inside the frog's body cavity?
The Liver
What adaptation allows the coquí to climb trees?
Adhesive toe pads.
Why do scientists continue to dissect frogs even though 3D computer models exist?
Dissections provide hands-on experience with real anatomy
What is the function of the small intestine?
Digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Why do scientists compare frog anatomy to human anatomy?
Frogs and humans are vertebrates that share many organs and organ systems because they evolved from a common ancestor.
Why is the coqui called the coqui
Because its call sounds like CO-QUI
Which Puerto Rican coquí species is extinct?
The Golden Coquí
Is the coqui a vertebrate or invertebrate
vertebrate
What is the function of the lungs?
Gas exchange—taking in oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide.