1st Quarter Final Review Sheet
Biology I
Terms to Know
1. Scientific Method
2. Ecology
3. Ecology Continued
4. Population Dynamics
5. Biodiversity
Biology I
1st Quarter Final
Review Sheet
Big Ideas and Concepts
What is the difference between scientific theory and a law?
Scientific Theory is a testable explanation, a natural phenomenon backed up by observations. A theory accurate in the timeframe you are in. You don't stop testing a theory. Theory explains why or how it happens
Law is a Single fact of nature, observable pattern in data or nature.
Wikipedia is an information source which can be edited by anyone interested in the topic. Science does not work that way. Science has "peer review." What is "peer review"?
Peer review is when scientists check and evaluate another scientist’s research to make sure it is accurate, reliable, and supported by evidence before it is published.
Design an investigation to test the hypothesis that eating animal crackers prior to taking a test will improve student scores. Include variables (identify independent and dependent ), controls and discuss how the results would be analyzed.
Hypothesis: Eating animal crackers before a test will improve student scores.
1. Investigation: Divide students into two groups. One group eats animal crackers before taking the test, and the other group does not. Both groups take the same test under the same conditions.
2. Independent Variable: Whether students eat animal crackers before the test.
3. Dependent Variable: The students’ test scores.
4. Controls: Give both groups the same test, the same amount of time, and the same testing environment.
5. Data Analysis: Calculate the average test score for each group and compare the results to see if the group that ate animal crackers scored higher.
What is a theory in scientific terms and how is it related to the term "theory" in everyday conversation? In science, how accurate are theories?
A scientific theory is a well-tested explanation supported by lots of evidence. In everyday conversation, a theory is more like a guess or an idea. Scientific theories are very reliable because they have been tested many times and supported by evidence.
When running an experiment, is it better to have a large sample size or a small one? Why?
A large sample size is better because it makes the results more reliable and reduces the effect of unusual results or individual differences.
Describe the social, economic and ecological risks and benefits of changing a natural ecosystem as a result of human activity.
Social: Benefits include more homes and roads, but risks include losing recreational areas and displacing communities.
Economic: Benefits include more jobs and resources, but risks include costly environmental damage and loss of tourism.
Ecological: Benefits can include creating farmland for food, but risks include habitat destruction, pollution, and loss of biodiversity.
The first law of thermodynamics states that neither matter nor energy can be created or destroyed. How does this apply to an energy pyramid or food chain in an ecosystem?
Energy is transferred from one organism to another through a food chain, but it is not created or destroyed. Some energy is released as heat at each level, so less energy is available to organisms higher up the energy pyramid.
Why are biogeochemical cycles (water, carbon, etc.) important for both ecosystems and humans?
Biogeochemical cycles are important because they recycle essential nutrients and water that ecosystems and humans need to survive. They help keep ecosystems balanced and provide resources like clean water, oxygen, and carbon for life.
Name 3 density-dependent and 3 density-independent factors that might limit the size of a moose population on Isle Royale.
Density-dependent factors:
Competition for food
Disease
Predation by wolves
Density-independent factors:
Severe winters
Drought
Wildfires
Explain how ecosystems can change as a result of the introduction of one or more new (exotic) species.
New exotic species can become invasive and compete with native species for food and space. They can disrupt food chains, reduce biodiversity, and change the balance of an ecosystem.
List 5 reasons biodiversity is important.
Provides food for humans and animals.
Helps keep ecosystems balanced.
Provides medicines and other useful resources.
Supports clean air and water.
Helps ecosystems survive environmental changes.
List 5 things humans do to threaten biodiversity.
Destroying habitats through deforestation and construction.
Polluting the air, water, and soil.
Hunting and overfishing.
Introducing invasive species.
Contributing to climate change.
List 5 things we can do to protect biodiversity.
Protect natural habitats and forests.
Reduce pollution and recycle.
Avoid introducing invasive species.
Conserve water and other natural resources.
Protect endangered species and wildlife.
What is the better type of natural resource to utilize: renewable or non-renewable? Why?
Renewable resources are better because they can be naturally replaced and are usually more sustainable for the environment than non-renewable resources.
Describe how and why renewable resources need to be used carefully.
Renewable resources need to be used carefully because they can run out if we use them faster than nature can replace them. We should conserve resources like water, trees, and soil so they remain available for future generations.