Introduction to Biology Unit 1

What is biology? Break down the word  Bio = life Ology = the study of

Study different types of organisms Interactions between organisms Interactions between organisms and the environment

Characteristics of organisms Organization  orderly structure Reproduction  continuation of the species

Growth  individuals change (development) Adjust to surroundings Homeostasis  regulation of a constant internal environment

Characteristics cont. Adaptation and evolution Adaptation  structure, behavior, or process that allows organisms to better survive in an environment Thick fur during the winter

Evolution  gradual accumulation of adaptations over time Change over time Human height

The Scientific Method Steps used to gather information and answer questions

Observation Noticing something Asking a question

Hypothesize Developing a possible explanation for the question Must be testable

Experimentation Procedure used to test the hypothesis Collection of information under controlled conditions

Control All conditions are kept constant Standard of comparison

Experimentation cont. Experimental group  1 single condition is changed Variable  what is being tested

Independent variable Changed condition that affects the outcome of the experiment Using different concentrations of enzyme

Dependent variable Condition that is changed because of the independent variable The time it takes for the reaction to occur

Collecting data Information obtained by experimentation Organized into charts, tables, or illustrations

Analysis Interpretation of the data A determination of the validity of the hypothesis Graphs or written words

Conclusion Explanation of the results of your experiment

Reporting the results Lab reports Scientific journals

Verifying the results Other scientists repeat the experiments to determine value

Forming a theory A hypothesis that is supported by a large volume of evidence The theory of evolution

Scientific laws Considered to be certain facts of nature that are generally known to be true The law of gravity

The nature of biology Kinds of research

Quantitative  numerical data Charts, graphs, tables

Length Mass Volume Time Temperature  meters grams liters seconds Degrees Celcius International System of Measurements (SI)

Qualitative  descriptive Observational data Written words or illustrations Animal behavior, the view under a microscope

Group Assignment Design an experiment to test the following: Does height affect heart rate when exercising?

Your experiment must have the following criteria: Title Materials Procedure Control Independent and dependent variables Data Conclusion

Hand it in tomorrow! Write it up as a group with both your names on it and hand it in tomorrow.