1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

The student is expected to:

2A know the definition of science and understand that it has limitations...; 2B know that hypotheses are tentative and testable statements that must be capable of being supported or not supported by observational evidence...;

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

(continued)

2C know scientific theories are based on natural and physical phenomena and are capable of being tested by multiple independent researchers. Unlike hypotheses, scientific theories are well-established and highly-reliable explanations, but they may be subject to change as new areas of science and new technologies are developed;

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

(continued)

2D distinguish between scientific hypotheses and scientific theories; 3A in all fields of science, analyze, evaluate, and critique scientific explanations by using empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing...; 3B communicate and apply scientific information extracted from various sources...

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

KEY CONCEPTScience is a way of thinking, questioning, and gathering evidence.

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

Like all science, biology is a process of inquiry.

• Scientists make careful and systematic observations.

• Scientists test their hypotheses and analyze their data.

• Scientists form a hypothesis as a possible answer to a question.

• Scientists record observations as data.

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

Biologists use experiments to test hypotheses.

• Observational studies allow scientists to describe a phenomenon.

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

• Experimental studies allow scientists to determine what causes a phenomenon.

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

– Independent variables are manipulated.

– Constants are conditions that are kept the same.

• Experimental studies allow scientists to determine what causes a phenomenon.

– Dependent variables are observed and measured.

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

A theory explains a wide range of observations.

• Theories explain a wide range of observations and experimental results.

• A theory is supported by a wide range of scientific evidence.

• Theories can change based on new evidence.

1.3 Scientific Thinking and Processes TEKS 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 3A, 3B

Scientists communicate information in many different ways.

• Scientific research is reviewed by other scientists.• Scientific journals are primary sources of scientific

information.• Most scientific knowledge relevant to the public comes

from secondary resources.• Reliable sources of scientific information are based on

empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and testing.