STS_Unit 1_Chapter 1 & 2

Unit 1: Historical Antecedents of Science and Technology

Chapter 1: Introduction to Science

Lesson Objectives

• Understand science and its impact on daily life and society.

• Distinguish between science and technology.

• Appreciate the benefits and limitations of science.

• Explore the history of science to understand its evolution.

Overview of Science

• Definition of Science: Originates from the Latin scientia, meaning "to know"; systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation.

• Goals of Science: Develop general laws, predict events, and create new technologies that benefit society.

Key Questions About Science

• What is science?

• What are the fields and goals of science?

• What types of knowledge exist, and what are their sources?

• How has science evolved over time?

Science vs. Technology

• Science is about understanding the natural world; technology applies this knowledge practically.

• Example: Understanding solar energy for developing solar panels.

Chapter 2: The Historical Development of Science and Technology

Lesson Objectives

• Enumerate key contributions and inventions by scientists throughout history.

• Identify major inventions and their historical contexts.

• Appreciate the significance of scientific advancements in human society.

History of Science

• Prehistoric Ages: Knowledge passed orally, such as the domestication of plants (e.g., maize).

• Stone Age: Development of simple tools (e.g., Oldowan toolkit).

• Bronze Age & Iron Age: Transition from bronze to iron tools leading to innovations in various fields.

Major Civilizations and Their Contributions

• Sumerians: Developed cuneiform for record-keeping, built advanced irrigation systems.

• Egyptians: Notable advancements in medicine, astronomy, and engineering; developed geometry and constructed pyramids.

• Indians: Produced standardized bricks, refined measurement units; early advancements in medicine (Ayurveda).

• Chinese: Early seismology, discovery of gunpowder, paper-making.

• Greek and Roman Innovations: The formulation of basic principles of natural philosophy, advancements in mathematics, and development of plumbing and architectural structures.

The Scientific Revolution

• A period where traditional views began to be challenged, leading to new methods of inquiry known as the Scientific Method.

• Key Figures: Copernicus (heliocentric theory), Galileo (telescope), Newton (laws of motion, gravitation).

• Development of empirical research and the transition from reliance on ancient texts to experimental approaches.

Scientific Method

• Steps:

  1. Observation

  2. Question formulation

  3. Hypothesis development

  4. Experimentation

  5. Data analysis

  6. Conclusion and communication.

• Not just linear steps; often iterative and allows adjustment based on findings.

Impacts of Science and Technology

• Positive technological advancements contribute to improved quality of life; misuse can lead to addiction and health issues (e.g., excessive gaming).

• Importance of human discretion in using technology effectively.

21st Century Developments

• Increased complexity in scientific understanding leads to advancements in fields like genetics and quantum computing.

• Continued research shaped by past discoveries and innovation cycles (new discoveries lead to paradigm shifts).

Paradigm Shifts in Science

• Defined by Thomas Kuhn: shifts in understanding that challenge old concepts and introduce new paradigms (e.g., from geocentric to heliocentric models).

• Steps of Kuhn's Cycle: Prescience, Normal Science, Model Drift, Model Crisis, Model Revolution, Paradigm Change.

Worksheets and Activities

Priming Activity: Decode Me!

• Exercise to connect terms and concepts to deepen understanding of scientific history.

Discussion Questions

• Explore the significance of smelting technologies in prehistoric times and their implications today.

• Reflect on how ancient inventions shaped modern construction techniques.

• Analyze the contributions of historical figures in science and their impacts on current society.