1.05 When in Rome: Science as a Process

Have you ever heard the saying: "When in Rome, do as the Romans do"? Well this is an important saying at BioVentures Unlimited; especially when you are traveling in Science. To do as scientists do will be vital to your success as a mystery tourist.

As you have learned, science is a body of knowledge and it is a process. In this activity, you will investigate science as a process. It is through the process of science that we add information to the scientific body of knowledge. You will discover there are elements of discovery and investigation common to all scientific questioning. There is a basic process that people follow to solve problems and gain new knowledge. We call this process the Scientific Method.

Asking good questions and making careful, detailed observations are the heart and soul of the Scientific Method, and take place throughout each stage of an investigation. Different types of studies, or investigations, require different methods. Because of this, the steps of the scientific method are not rigid, but can be altered in ways to fit the investigation being conducted.

In this activity you will: investigate the scientific method to determine how it is used to solve problems review or learn the steps of the scientific and experimental method use the experimental method to solve a problem, complete and submit a lab report The Honors student will: identify the steps of the scientific and experimental methods in the work of others

You have probably been introduced to the Scientific Method at other times in your education, but take time to review the steps of the Scientific Method. If you are not familiar with the Scientific Method take time to study the resource sheet so you understand it. (You may want to print this resource page for your Biology Travel Log.)

When you finish with your review, move on to the BioVenture Tab.