Biology

Make an observation

The first step in the scientific question. The process of gathering information (data). Uses the senses, particularly, sight, hearing, and sound.

Ask questions

The 2nd step to the scientific process.

Hypothesis

The third step in the scientific process. A proposed answer for a scientific process. Must be specific and testable.

Test the hypothesis (Experiment)

The fourth step in the scientific process.

Analyze and conclude

The fifth and last step in the scientific process. Data is analyzed in order to draw conclusions. May include a table or graph.

Controlled experiment

Hypothesis tested. One variable changed at a time.

Constants

Factors that remain the same during an experiment.

Independent variable

Manipulated or changed variable. On the x-axis of a graph.

Dependent variable

Measurable variable. Responds to independent variable. On the y-axis of a graph.

Qualitative data (Quality)

Descriptions in words. Example: Color, odor, and texture.

Quantitative data (Quantity)

Numeric measurements. Objective.

Evaluating results

Compare results with hypothesis to determine whether your results support your hypothesis.

Theories

Explain a wide range of observations and experimental results. Are supported by a wide range of scientific evidence. Can change based on new evidence.

Cells

One major theme of biology. Cells are the basic unit of life. Organisms can be unicellular or multicellular. This theme is important because to be living, you must consist of at least one cell.

Reproduction

One of the major themes of biology. Members of a species must have the ability to produce offspring. This theme is important because it is the way in which new organisms are produced. There is asexual and sexual reproduction. Asexual reproduction produces a lot of offspring, but it gives to genetic diversity. Sexual reproduction doesn’t give as many offspring, but it does give genetic diversity.

Unity and diversity (DNA)

One major theme of biology. All organisms use DNA as their genetic material. Organisms share similar DNA, but also have unique parts of DNA. This theme is important because it shows all organisms are related.

Growth and development

One major theme of biology. All organisms must grow and develop. This theme is important because it is the way in which organisms mature and gain the ability to reproduce.

Metabolism

One major theme of biology. All organisms must be able to obtain and use energy. Living organisms depend on chemical energy. This is an important theme because all organisms must have a process to obtain energy.

Response to the environment

One major theme of biology. All organisms must react to the environment to survive. This is important because many organisms use different adaptations to respond to the environment.

Homeostasis (Balance)

One of the major themes of biology. Homeostasis is the maintenance of constant internal conditions in an organism. It is important because it allows an organism to regulate its internal conditions.

Evolution

One of the major themes of biology. Evolution is the change in living things over time. It is important because it provides organisms the ability to adapt to changing environments.

8 major themes of biology

Cells, reproduction, unity and diversity (DNA), growth and development, metabolism, response to the environment, homeostasis (balance), and evolution.