BIOLOGY CHAPTER 1 OVERVIEW
FOUNDATIONS
Chapter 1 Vocabulary
Science
Uncertainty
Observation
Inference
Hypothesis
Controlled experiment
Independent variable
Dependent variable
Controlled variables
Control Group
Data
Quantitative data
Qualitative data
Sources of Error
Curiosity
Skepticism
Open-Mindedness
Creativity
Technology
Peer Review
Theory
Bias
Biology
DNA
Stimulus
Homeostasis
Evolution
Metabolism
Biosphere
International System (SI)
Chapter 1 Summary
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The goals of science are to give natural explanations for natural events, to understand patterns,
and to make predictions.
Scientific methodology involves observing and asking questions, making inferences and forming
hypotheses, doing controlled experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing
conclusions.
Curiosity, skepticism, open-mindedness, and creativity help scientists come up with new ideas.
Publishing peer-reviewed papers in journals lets scientists share ideas and review each other’s
work.
A scientific theory is a well-tested explanation that accounts for a lot of observations and
hypotheses and that lets scientists make good predictions.
Using science involves understanding its limitations and how it fits into society.
Living things are made up basic units called cells, are based on a universal genetic code, obtain
and use materials and energy, grow and develop, reproduce, respond to their environment,
maintain a stable internal environment, and change over time.
Biology’s big ideas are the cellular basis of life; information and heredity matter and energy;
growth, development, and reproduction; homeostasis; evolution; structure and function; unity
and diversity of live; interdependence in nature; and science as a way of knowing.
Biology is made up of many overlapping fields that use different tools to study life from the level
of molecules to the whole planet.
Most scientists use the metric system when collecting and performing experiments.