Fundamentals of Scientific Inquiry

Biology, the study of life. As we study living things we are often required to make observations, measurements, and even conduct experiments. To do this efficiently, we must often be familiar with various laboratory procedures, measuring equipment, and the fundamentals of the metric system. So, in this unit we will then learn about the metric system, measuring instruments, lab safety procedures, and then learn the basic steps of the scientific method. Finally, we will use this knowledge to conduct a scientific inquiry (experiment), analyze the results, and learn to write a lab report.

SCSh2. Students will use standard safety practices for all classroom laboratory and field investigations.

SCSh4. Students will use tools and instruments for observing, measuring, and manipulating scientific equipment and materials.

SCSh5. Students will demonstrate the computation and estimation skills necessary for analyzing data and developing reasonable scientific explanations.

Assignment 1: Listen and participate in a brief class discussion and demonstration on lab safety.

Assignment 2: Watch video on Metrics and Measurement (class activity). Take notes.

Assignment 3: Scientific Measurements and Density Lab (we will complete this activity together as a class).

Assignment 4: Obtain handouts on metrics and measurements from Dr. Maudsley. Listen to mini-lecture on Metric Conversions. Take notes. Complete metric conversions and measurements worksheet.

Assignment 5: Watch video on Accuracy vs. Precision. Participate in class discussion following video. Write down everything written on the board during the discussion.

Assignment 6: Significant Figures and Scientific Notation-mini-lecture. Listen carefully, take notes, and complete practice problems as we go.

Quiz: Measurements and the Metric System. Quiz on what we learned about metrics and scientific measurements including: measuring devices, how to do metric to metric conversions, temperature conversions, and universal conversions. Also know how to read and write numbers in scientific notation, recognize significant figures and know the difference between precision and accuracy.

SCSh3a-f. Students will identify and investigate problems scientifically.

SCSh6a. Students will write clear, coherent laboratory reports related to scientific investigations.

Assignment 7: Listen to the mini-lecture on the acquisition of knowledge and the Scientific Method. Take notes and participate in the class discussion that follows.

Click here to view video version of the lecture.

Assignment 8: Conduct a scientific inquiry (experiment). We will do this together in small groups of 4-5 students.

Assignment 9: Obtain a copy of "How to Write a Lab Report" from your instructor. Write a lab report based on the experiment conducted above for assignment 8. Type your report in Microsoft Word, save it as a file with your name on it (example: lab report - Keisha), and place a copy in your instructor's Drop Box.

Quiz: Quiz (paper) --Acquisition of Knowledge and the Scientific Method