1. Important Concepts Above and Beyond Biology I
The Nature of Science
Important Concepts Above and Beyond Biology I

2. What is Science?
Science is a means of obtaining information about the natural world.

3. What does this involve?
Scientists use established methods (Scientific Method).
Science is a process of solving problems.
Scientific theories have “predictive” value.

6. What to watch out for... False assumptions lead to flawed theories.
Science provides the criteria for selecting a “better” or alternative theory.

7. Scientific Knowledge is TENTATIVE!
It is subject to peer review.
It is subject to being tested, modified, and rejected.
Observation and measurements contain errors.
Science contains an element of uncertainty.

8. Change is expected in Science!
New information may cause scientists to change their minds!
This has happened throughout human history and is bound to happen again!!

9. Doing Science Involves...
Creativity
Imagination
Curiosity
Knowledge of the Subject

10. How are these traits utilized?
1. Science begins and ends with questions.
2. Science is based on common human abilities.
3. Science can be considered “purposeful play”.
4. Scientific discoveries can be serendipitous. (Found by accident)

12. What Influences Science?
Cultural context.
Historical context.
Political context.
Scientist’s own values and personal beliefs.

13. Conflict can develop between science and other ways of thinking.
Science is only ONE way of knowing.

15. Science Requires Critical Thinking Skills:
Scientific thinking is based on empirical data rather than authority.
The ability to identify assumptions is important.
Scientific thinking needs to be as objective as possible.

16. More skills...
Scientists attempt to identify cause and effect relationships.
Scientific conclusions may be derived by inductive and deductive reasoning.
The quality and quantity of evidence must be considered when supporting or rejecting hypotheses.

17. Most Importantly….
Science involves an awareness of the thinking skills used in problem solving.
You can’t believe EVERYTHING that you see, hear, or read!!!
You have to become a critical thinker when it comes to scientific claims!!