Unit 0: The Nature of Science

By: Bozeman Science

In this video Paul Andersen explains the importance of models and visual representations in an AP Biology class. Science practices are overarching skills and knowledge required to be successful in an AP Biology classroom. Models for each of the four big science ideas are included. According to the new curriculum students should be able to create, describe, refine, reexpress and use models. Sample test questions are included for each of the five sub practices.

By: Bozeman Science

Paul Andersen explains how to use mathematics appropriately. He begins by emphasizing the important role that mathematics plays in the life sciences today and in that the future. He describes important mathematical equations in each of the four big ideas. According to the new AP Biology framework the student can justify the selection of a mathematical routine to solve problems. The student can apply mathematical routines to quantities that describe natural phenomena. Finally the student can estimate numerically quantities that describe natural phenomena.

By: Bozeman Science

Paul Andersen explains how to formulate questions to guide discussions and investigations. He starts by describing the proper type of questions that should be asked in an AP Biology classroom. He gives four examples of questions that could be asked in the four big ideas of the classroom. He finishes by giving examples of posing, refining and evaluating questions.

By: Bozeman Science

In this video Paul Andersen describes the science practice of data collection. He begins with a brief description of science and the scientific method. He details concepts related to data collection in each of the four big ideas. He then walks through four different practice questions related to data collection.

By: Bozeman Science

In this video Paul Andersen explains how scientists analyze data and evaluate evidence. He starts with a description of data and how it must be properly displayed. He then describes types of data in each of the four big ideas. He finally discusses a number of practice questions related to data analysis.

By: Bozeman Science

In this video Paul Andersen explains how scientific theories are created and modified over time. He starts by discussing the theory of natural selection as a model for the creation and modification of theories. He gives examples of theories within each of the four big ideas. He gives a number of example questions that cover this science practice. He ends be describing how miasma theory was eventually replaced by the germ theory through systematic studies.

By: Bozeman Science

In this video Paul Andersen explains the final AP Biology practice on connecting knowledge. The video begins with an introduction to interdisciplinary studies and how science is changing over time. He describes differences of scale in size, complexity, and timespan. He also explains who different domains are important in biology. He describes a couple of questions that represent this practice. He finishes with a description of the wiki game.

By: Bozeman Science

Paul Andersen shows you how to calculate the standard error of a data set. He starts by explaining the purpose of standard error in representing the precision of the data. The standard error is based on the standard deviation and the sample size. He works a problem and gives the viewer a problem to work on their own.