Unit 1 Notes: Part 1 – Intro to Biology, Scientific Method, and Basic Chemistry
What makes something “living”?
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Properties of Life:
a) Organization - _________________________________________________________________
b) Evolutionary adaptation - _________________________________________________________
c) Response to the environment - ____________________________________________________
d) Homeostasis - _________________________________________________________________
e) Energy utilization - ______________________________________________________________
f)
Growth and development - _______________________________________________________
g) Reproduction - _________________________________________________________________
What is Biology?
Biology is the scientific study of life.
We recognize life by what living things do.
Unifying Themes of Biology
1. Cell structure & function
2. Heredity (genetics)
3. Stability & homeostasis
4. Interdependence of organisms
5. Metabolism
6. Evolution
7. Reproduction
The Scientific Method Cycle
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Think about a time you used the scientific method to answer a question.
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Types of variables
Independent variable is the variable that is purposely changed (manipulated variable)
Dependent variable is the variable that may change due to the manipulated variable and is observed
(responding variable)
Control variable is the variable that serves as the standard of comparison with another group or
Theory vs. Law - Hypothesis predicts. Theory explains. Law describes.
Theory - A well-tested explanation that unifies a broad range of observations. Supported by a large body
of evidence. NOT ABSOLUTE
Law – A statement of fact that has been determined from observation, so that a scientific phenomena
always occurs if certain conditions are present. ABSOLUTE
Class Discussion Questions:
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How does scientific knowledge build on itself over time?
How does scientific knowledge benefit from scientists sharing and debating ideas and information
with peers?
What is qualitative data vs. quantitative data?
How do scientists represent data?
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Matter
States of Matter:
1. _____________________________________________________________________________
2. _____________________________________________________________________________
3. _____________________________________________________________________________
Atomic Theory (Take notes from your EDpuzzle Homework)
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The Atom:
Atomic Structure:
 An atom is made up of protons and neutrons in the nucleus and electrons in the surrounding
cloud.
 Atomic number is equal to the number of protons.
 The number of protons equals the number of electrons.
 The mass number is equal to the number of protons plus neutrons.
Draw the structure of the an atom of the
element Hydrogen