Science & Nature of Science
Scientists use Indirect and direct Observations.
Define direct observations & Indirect observations.
Direct observations are when scientists use their own senses—like sight, hearing, or touch—to watch something happen firsthand.
Indirect observations are when they collect evidence using tools or data, such as thermometer readings or microscope images, to learn about something they can’t observe directly.
What is a testable prediction based on observations.
Hypothesis
What is the first step of the scientific method?
Ask a question / state a problem.
What is the smallest unit of life.
cell
Student tests if more sunlight makes beans grow taller. Identify the independent variable.
Amount of sunlight
What is the difference between an observation and an inference?
Observation = using senses to gather facts;
Inference = logical interpretation based on those facts.
What vocab term means a logical interpretation based on prior knowledge?
Inference
Define independent variable.
The variable changed or manipulated by the experimenter.
List any three characteristics of life.
Examples: made of cells; use energy/materials; respond to stimuli; grow & develop; maintain homeostasis; reproduce; adapt/evolve.
Student tests if more sunlight makes beans grow taller. Identify the dependent variable.
Bean plant growth/height
True or False: A theory cannot become a fact.
TRUE
What vocab term is a statement based on repeated observations describing the natural world?
Law
What is the purpose of a constant variable?
This part of an experiment stays the same so scientists can be sure the results are caused by the variable being tested (IV), not something else.
Correct order from smallest to largest: organ, cell, organelle, tissue, organism, organ system.
Organelle → Cell → Tissue → Organ → Organ System → Organism
Student tests if more sunlight makes beans grow taller. Identify TWO constants.
Type of bean seed, soil type, amount of water, same pot size, etc.
SHOW GOOGLE SLIDE
Using the words PRECISE and ACCURATE:
What does this bullseye show us?
What vocab term means the fundamental truth serving as a foundation for a system of belief or behavior?
Principle
What is the difference between qualitative and quantitative data?
Qualitative = descriptive (color, smell)
Quantitative = measurable with numbers.
Which level of biological organization is made up of a group of similar cells working together to perform a specific job? Give an example.
Tissue — examples: muscle tissue, nervous tissue, connective tissue, epithelial tissue.
SpongeBob notices that his pal Gary is suffering from slimotosis, which causes the shell to develop a nasty slime and a horrible odor. Patrick believes rubbing seaweed on the shell is the perfect cure, while Sandy says drinking Dr. Kelp will work better. To test both ideas, SpongeBob sets up three groups of snails with slimotosis:
Group A: Seaweed rubbed on their shells daily for a week.
Group B: Dr. Kelp to drink daily for a week.
Group C (Control): No treatment.
After one week, only the snails in Group A (seaweed treatment) lose their slime and bad smell.
Write a conclusion for this scenario.
Rubbing seaweed on the shell is the most effective cure for slimotosis, since only the seaweed-treated snails recovered.
How does a theory differ from a law?
Theory = well-tested explanation of why something happens
Law = describes what consistently happens, without explaining why.
What is the diagram showing evolutionary relationships?
Cladogram
Why is it important to repeat experimental trials?
To ensure results are reliable, reduce errors, and increase precision.
Explain how structure and function are related at the cellular or organ level.
The shape and composition of cells/organs enable them to perform specific functions (e.g., thin lung tissue allows gas exchange).
A student wants to know if the type of liquid (water, sports drink, or soda) affects how quickly radish seeds germinate. She uses the same type of seeds, identical soil, and keeps all pots at the same temperature and light level. After seven days, she counts how many seeds have sprouted in each group.
Identify the independent variable, dependent variable, and two constants.
Independent variable: Type of liquid used to water the seeds (water, sports drink, soda)
Dependent variable: Number of seeds that germinate (or germination rate)
Constants: Same seed type, same soil type, equal light and temperature, same container size, same watering schedule, etc.