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Biology · Foundations of Biology · Chapter 2

The Scientific Method (Solving a Biological Problem)

Taught in Class 9Class 11

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Topics in this chapter

  1. 2.1Steps of the Scientific MethodThe scientific method step by step: observation, question, hypothesis, deduction, experiment, results and conclusion, with an example and a flow chart.Interactive lesson
  2. 2.2Observation and QuestionsQualitative and quantitative observations, how instruments help biologists, and how to turn an observation into a testable scientific question.Interactive lesson
  3. 2.3Hypothesis and DeductionWhat a hypothesis is, the features of a good hypothesis, if–then deductions, and inductive and deductive reasoning.Interactive lesson
  4. 2.4Experiments, Variables and ControlsHow to plan a fair test: independent, dependent and controlled variables, experimental and control groups, and reliable results.Interactive lesson
  5. 2.5Theory, Law and PrincipleThe difference between a hypothesis, a theory and a law or principle, with biological examples such as cell theory and Mendel's laws.Interactive lesson
  6. 2.6Case Study: How the Cause of Malaria Was FoundHow Laveran, King, Ross and Grassi found that malaria is caused by Plasmodium and spread by the female Anopheles mosquito, step by step.Interactive lesson
  7. 2.7Data Collection, Graphs and RatiosRecording data in tables, drawing line and bar graphs, and using ratio, proportion, percentage and mean in biology.Interactive lesson

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