Genealogy

The study of how things descend from another

-Cultural history (decent)
-Biological history (used to map diseases)
Pedigree: chart of breeding records
Taxon: any group of organisms

Phylogeny

The evolutionary history of a group of organisms
Often presented in a tree-like form to depict relationships among
them.
Biodiversity

The variety of life on earth and the natural patterns this variation
creates.
Three levels of diversity:
o Genetic Diversity
o Species Diversity- number of species in a region; provides a
common measurement of biodiversity.
o Ecosystem Diversity

Theory of Evolution

Theory-explanations for natural phenomena that have been repeatedly
tested and are exceptionally well supported by empirical data.
(Examples- cell theory, nucleus, bonding, gravity.)

Observation and measurement are essential to the scientific approach.
o Descriptive science approach:
Emphasis lies in accurate, repeatable
observations/descriptions.
Answers what not why

o Experimental science approach
Observation is just the first step

Scientific Hypothesis

Karl Popper
Must be:
o Testable
o Falsifiable: prove your hypothesis wrong
Two types of hypothesis:
o Null: No difference between the two groups
o Alternative
2 main scientific approaches:
o Descriptive
Inductive reasoning
Apply a big theory to a small case
o Experimental
Deductive reasoning
Apple a small theory to a big case

Science depends on the ability to be observed and repeatability

Theories:
o Broad ideas
o Supported by a lot of evidence
o Not the same as a hypothesis

Two components to a scientific theory:
o Pattern in nature
o Process responsible for the pattern