Introduction to Biology

What is the study of biology?

Bios means life ; logos means study The study of biology is the study of living things, the environment and the interaction between living things and the environment.

Importance of biology
A better understanding of how the human body functions Finding cures for diseases Saving endangered species which are on the verge of extinction A better management of problems related to the environment.

microbiology

zoology

biochemistry

botany

Fields of biology

genetics

ecology taxonomy

anatomy
medicine

Fields

Description

Zoology
Botany Microbiology Taxonomy Ecology

The study of animal

The study of plants The study of microorganism Classification of living and extinct organisms Relationship between living organism and their environment , and how they interact with both living and non-living components in the environment. The study of internal structures and organisation of living organism. Chemistry of living organism, especially the structure and function of their chemical components. Form and structure of organisms. The application of biological process and living microorganism in industry.

Anatomy Biochemistry

Morphology biotechnology

Scientific Method

Scientific Skills

Science process skills

Manipulative skills

Science Process Skills

Observing Classifying Measuring and using numbers Making inferences Predicting Communicating Interpreting data Controlling variables Making hypothesis

Manipulative Skills
Psychomotor skills

Steps in Scientific Method

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 1 0 Identifying a problem Making a hypothesis Planning the investigation Identifying and controlling variables Conducting the experiment

Collecting data Recording data Analysing and interpreting data Making conclusions Writing a report

1 : Identifying a problem
Begins with an observation. Based on the observations made, problem statements are formulated. An inference, which is a logical conclusion or possible interpretation based on the observation is made.

2 : Making a hypothesis
A hypothesis is a general statements about or a possible explanation for an observed phenomenon. Link between a manipulated variable and responding variables. The experiments carried out produce results that either support or refute the hypothesis

3 : Planning the investigation

Determine the apparatus and materials needed Identifying the variables that influence the results of the experiment. Determine the procedures involved Determine the observation to be made & measurement to be taken.

4 : Identifying and Controlling Variables

Variables factor or conditions which influence the outcome of an investigations. 3 types of variables : a) Manipulated variables b) Responding variables c) Fixed or controlled variables.

5 : Conducting The Experiment

The apparatus , materials and specimens used must be handled correctly and safely The experimental design should include a control experiment for comparison A quantitive experiment is often repeated three times to obtain a more precise and reliable average or mean reading.

6 : Collecting Data
Results experiment DATA Data are obtained by observation or measurement. Data should be accurate and objective.

7 : Recording Data
Data can be presented in the form of tables, graphs, charts or diagrams.

8 : Analysing and Interpreting Data

Information from the data must be analysed, explained and interpreted in detail Relationship between the manipulated variable and the responding variable must be stated clearly.

9 : Making Conclusions
A rational conclusion is the drawn as to whether the results support or refute the hypothesis.

10 : Writing a Report
The framework of report is as follows. 1) Objective 2) Problem statement 3) Hypothesis 4) Variables 5) Materials and apparatus 6) Technique 7) Procedure 8) Results 9) Discussion 10) Conclusion