What is Science?

Inquiry is at the heart of science. What is Science? Science = Latin “to know” Inquiry is at the heart of science. Inquiry: search for information and explanation Two main processes: Discovery science Hypothesis-based science

Discovery Science Describes nature through observation and analysis of data Data = recorded observations Qualitative and quantitative Inductive reasoning: derive generalizations based on specific observations

Hypothesis-Based Science Hypothesis: makes predictions that can be tested by recording more observations or experiments AP Biology: “If … , then … because…” Results can either support or refute the hypothesis Not “My hypothesis is correct”

The Myth of the Scientific Method Published research articles follow the steps of the “textbook” scientific method Most scientific inquiries don’t follow this structured form Scientists can be working with the wrong hypothesis and have to redirect research Discovery science - contributes to understanding of nature without using the “scientific method”

Experiments Hypothesis Use control and experimental groups Design: Independent variable (IV) Dependent variable (DV) Control Constants # Trials

Hypothesis / Theory / Law Explanation to specific question Tested by experiment or continued observation Can be disproven, but not can’t proven to be true Theory Summarizes group of hypothesis supported by repeated testing Broader in scope New hypotheses can be generated from it Supported by massive body of evidence Scientific Law Statement of fact Explains things, but doesn’t describe them Generally accepted to be true and universal Basis for scientific method

Science Practices for AP Bio Use representations and models to communicate and solve problems Use mathematics appropriately Pose scientific questions to extend thinking or guide investigations Plan and implement data collection Analyze data and evaluate evidence Work with scientific explanations and theories Connect and relate knowledge across scales and domains

Video clip: What is Science? HHMI Lecture (12:27-14:18)