Chapter 1 : Introduction to Biology

1.1 The Study of Biology

What is Biology? 1. 2. 3. Bios means life and logos means the study of. Biology is .. Living things are also called organism. Living organisms include bacteria, fungi, plants and animals. All living organisms share certain common characteristics. Organisms develop and increase in size and weight when they grow. animals are able to move from one place to another (locomotion). Plants or plant parts move in response to stimuli. Living organisms need food for growth and to carry out daily activities. Plants make their own food when they photosynthesis. Animals depend on plants or other kinds of animals for food. All living organism respire. They break down the food consumed to release energy for growth, movement, reproduction and other activities. . Organisms produce waste or toxic products as a result of chemical activities in their bodies. These waste or toxic materials needs to be removed from the organism. . Organism ensure the survival and continuity of their own kind by producing new generations of offspring. . Organisms are sensitive and respond to changes in their surroundings (for example, temperature, sound, light and touch).

The Importance of Biology 1. 2. 3. 4. Biology comes into our lives all the time. What eat or drink and how we react to our environment are ways in which how biology could affect us personally. Biology is a scientific subject which involves the investigations of organisms and makes discoveries about them. Biology also has brought about many benefits Some of these include : a) . b) . c) . 5. 6. 7. Biology enables us to know more about how our bodies work and how other organisms function. Biological knowledge and techniques could be applied to identify and control diseases by discovering new medicines and treatments. Combining the knowledge acquired in biology with technology; we could improve agricultural methods for better quality agricultural products and increase food production. 8. The study of biology enables us to appreciate and enjoy the beauty of our living world. The Different Fields of Study in Biology 1. They are different fields of study in Biology Major areas of biology Description The study of body structures of organisms. The study of bacteria The study of the molecular basis of life The study of the application of computer technology to the management of biological information. The Study of the application of biological science to the manufacturing industry.

An interdisciplinary science that applies theories and methods of the physical sciences in biology. The study of plants. The study of cells. The study of the interactions between organisms and the interactions of organisms with their physical environment. The study of how characteristics are passed from parents to offspring. The study of the human body The study of marine life The study of microorganisms The study of the functions and life processes of organisms. The study of the classification of organisms. The study of animals. Table 1.1 2. Biology is also a subject related to other fields of science such as a Chemistry, Physics and information Technology. Relatively new branches of biology include Biophysics and Bioinformatics. Jobs or Careers Related to Biology 1. Being a biologist can be a fulfilling and exciting profession provided your own personal goals, talents, and interests match the activities of biologists. 2. There are many jobs or careers related to biology. Biologist apply their knowledge in many areas. 3. The following are all biologist in different ways: Doctors Nurses Dentist Physiotherapists Vets Biotechnologists

 Forensic scientists Nutritionists Farmers Horticulturalists and Foresters 4. 5. 6. 7. Training in biology allows them to apply their knowledge of biology in the work they do. Biotechnology apply biotechnological knowledge and techniques or use living organisms to develop useful product. Biomedical scientist applies biological and principles to clinical practice Bioinformatic applies computer technology to the management of biological information

1.2

Scientific Investigation

Various Ways of Studying Biology 1. The study of biology involves making careful observations and carrying out of experiments. 2. Many scientific skills are needed when you plan and carry out an investigation or an expert.

3. Below are some science process skills you need to acquire in order to conduct any scientific investigations. Process Skills Description Using the five senses to gather information about an object or a phenomenon Using observations to group objects or events based on their

similarities and differences, Making quantitative observations using numbers and tools with standardized units Using prior experiences or data collected to draw conclusions and explain events Stating the outcome of a future event based on prior knowledge or experiences. Describing changes in parameters with time. Explaining an event or outcome logically using collected data Defining concepts by stating what must be carried out and what should be observed. Identifying which variables have to be kept constant and which variables have to be changed in an investigation. Making a general statement about the relationship between a manipulated variable and a responding variable to explain an event or observation Using words or graphics such as tables, graphs, figures or models to describe an action, event or object. Planning and conducting activities to test a certain hypothesis Table 1.2

The Scientific Method

1.

Biologists use a variety of methods in their investigations. The scientific method is often used in investigations. Many process skills can be demonstrated when using this systematic approach.

2.

The scientific method usually consists of the following basic steps: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) (i) (j)

3. 4. 5. 6.

When designing and performing an experiment, it is important to identify and control the factors that can affect the accuracy of the experiment. Factors that affect the experiment or change the result of the experiment are called variables. The process of changing one variables at a time to ensure a fair test is called controlling variables. The manipulated or independent variable is under the control of the experimenter to see how changing it cause a change in the responding or dependent variable. The responding variable depends on the manipulated variable. At the same time, the fixed variables are kept constant so as not to bias the outcome of the experiment.

7.

In a proper scientific investigation, the same experiment is usually repeated many times to obtain consistent results to validate the conclusion draw.

How to write a report?

Objectives

State the aim of the experiment Pose questions about the observations made Formulate a preliminary explanation or prediction that will be able to explain what is going to happen during the experiment Identify and control the manipulated, responding and fixed variables List the selection of materials and apparatus which will be used during the experiment State the technique involved to obtain the results Write the instructions to carry out the experiment Present the results in the form of simple diagrams, charts, graphs and tables. Include calculations, if there are any Analyse and interpret the data, then determine the relationship between the manipulated variable and the responding variable Draw a conclusion based on the hypothesis given, whether

Scientific attitudes and noble values 1. Besides having good scientific skills, biologist must possess good scientific attitudes and noble values in order to be successful in his studies and research. 2. Some of these attitudes and values are as follow: (a) Having an interest and curiosity towards the environment. (b) Being honest and accurate in recording and validating data. (c) Being diligent and persevering.

(d) Being responsible about the safety of oneself, others and the environment. (e) Realizing that science is a mean to understanding nature. (f) Appreciating the balance of nature. (g) Appreciating the contribution of science and technology. (h) Being respectful, well-mannered and cooperative. (i) Having critical and analytical thinking. (j) Being flexible and open-minded. (k) Being kind-hearted and caring. (l) Being objective, rational and systematic. (m)Daring to try. (n) Being confident and independent