Characteristics of Science

1. Describe the characteristics of science.
A. The characteristics of science are observations, search for regularities, process the information, and self-corrections. Science is based upon observations that incorporate our senses, or instruments that extend our senses, to interpret natural experiences. Science is a searh for regularities. These regularities may include observed phenomena or patterns in nature. After observations have been recorded about regularities, scientist must process the information. Science is a self-correcting process in which previously existing concepts can be expanded, modified, or replaced if necessary. 2. Why is science considered a unified endeavor?

A. Science is considered a unified endeavor because of the methods, reasoning, and zest for science is universal. There is physical science, earth science, and life science. 3. Compare and contrast science and technology.

A. Science is a tool that allows us to comprehend phenomena. Technology is the application of science. Science feeds technology, as evidenced by the growth of genetic engineering after understanding the molecular configuration of DNA. 4. What did Sir Isaac Newton mean when he stated, “If I have seen a little further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants”? A. He was only able to accomplish what he did because of the people who worked and studied before he did. 5. Defend the statement “Process skills are considered life skills.” A. One uses process skills to complete everyday task, such as choosing and using the right tools to complete a task or organizing a task. 6. Why must all three aspects of science be addressed in a successful science education program?

A. Science is a synthesis of content, process, and attitude. Without content, the student cannot understand the grandeur of the universe. Without process, the student cannot experience the excitement of discovery. Without a healthy scientific attitude, the student cannot value content appreciate the excitement of discovery. 7. Relate the classical scientific method to the process skills of science. A. Both are used to question and observe something. Also, they are used to analyze data and interpret the data. 8. What can be done to improve scientific attitudes and education? A. Improving attitudes toward teaching science and reducing science anxiety. 9. Describe several characteristics of a well-designed experiment. A. Each experiment must have a dependent, an independent and control variable. A well-developed hypothesis and lab report. 10. In an experiment designed to test the effects of outboard motor oil on the growth of algae, identify the control, the independent variable, and the dependent variable. Construct a simple hypothesis.

A. The Control is the growth of algae without the oil. The Depenedent Variable is the growth of algae. The Independent Variable is the motor oil. If you give the algae motor oil, then the algae will die. 11. The term theory is often used in everyday life, yet the scientific method involves the formulation of hypothesis. Describe how the term theory is misused in everyday life. A. In everyday life we use the term theory as a guess, but scientifically it is a set of observed processes, supported by substantial evidence. 12. Why is there no room for superstition and mysticism in science? A. There is no room for superstition and mysticism in science because they lack physical evidence. 13. Why is a fundamental knowledge of biology necessary for everyone? A. Knowledge of biology makes one more scientifically literate and able to understand the world around one.