Biology Quiz Summary – Miller & Levine (California Living Earth) - Video Notes

A set of practice flashcards covering concepts from Chapter 1.1 (What is Science?) and Chapter 1.3 (Studying Life) including definitions, processes, themes, and quick prep tips.

What is the definition of science?

An organized way of gathering and analyzing evidence about the natural world.

What is the goal of science?

To provide natural explanations for events in the natural world, use those explanations to understand patterns, and make useful predictions.

What does scientific thinking rely on?

Evidence, not beliefs or opinions.

What is the difference between observation and inference?

Observation is noticing and describing events; inference is interpretation based on what is observed.

What is a hypothesis?

A scientific explanation that can be tested.

How should experiments be designed when testing hypotheses?

Experiments must be controlled, changing only one variable at a time.

Name some key scientific attitudes.

Curiosity, skepticism, open-mindedness, and creativity.

How does science differ from other ways of knowing?

Science deals only with the natural world and uses evidence; it does not answer questions about beliefs or morals.

How many characteristics do living things have and what are they?

Eight: Made of cells; universal genetic code (DNA); obtain and use energy; grow and develop; reproduce; respond to environment; maintain homeostasis; change over time.

List the levels of organization in biology from smallest to largest.

Molecules → Cells → Tissues → Organs → Organ Systems → Organisms → Populations → Communities → Ecosystems → Biosphere.

What is the central theme about the cell in biology?

The cell is the basic unit of life.

What does the phrase 'structure and function are linked' mean?

Structure and function are linked in living things.

What does evolution explain?

Unity and diversity of life.

What is homeostasis?

Maintaining a stable internal environment.

What is interdependence in nature?

Organisms depend on each other and their environment.

What are some fields of biology mentioned?

From ecology to molecular biology; life studied from very small to very large scales.

What is the Quick Quiz Prep Tip for 1.1?

Focus on the scientific method, evidence, and what makes science different.

What is the Quick Quiz Prep Tip for 1.3?

List and explain the 8 characteristics of life and recognize the themes/levels of organization.