Summary BIO 120 Module 1: History of Biology and the Scientific Method Comprehensive Study Guide & Revision Notes (2026)

BIO 120 MODULE 1, HISTORY OF BIOLOGY AND THE
SCIENTIFIC METHOD LATEST REVIEWED STUDY
GUIDE, LATEST UPDATE 2026

Module 1 – Introduction to Biology & The
Scientific Method
Introduction to Biology
Biology
The scientific study of life and living organisms.
Includes the study of organisms and their interactions with one another
and with their environment.
Biology ranges from studying molecules and cells to entire ecosystems
and the biosphere.
Examples of biological research include:

Area Example
Medicine Cancer, Alzheimer's disease, AIDS research
Microbiology E. coliand Salmonela outbreaks
Environmental Biology Climate change, conservation
Genetics DNA and heredity


Science
Science is the process of studying and understanding the natural world
through observation, experimentation, and evidence.
Scientific knowledge is developed using the scientific method.
Scientific explanations are based on evidence that can be tested and
evaluated.

Natural Sciences



Module 1: History of Biology and the Scientific Method 1

, Natural sciences study the physical world and natural phenomena.
Examples include:

Life Sciences Physical Sciences
Biology Chemistry
Physics
Astronomy
Geology

Some scientific fields combine multiple disciplines.
Examples:
Biochemistry
Biophysics

Branches of Biology

Branch Studies
Botany Plants
Zoology Animals
Cell Biology Cells
Molecular Biology DNA, RNA, and proteins
Microbiology Microorganisms
Neurobiology Nervous system
Anatomy Structure of organisms
Physiology Function of organisms
Ecology Interactions between organisms and their environment
Paleontology Fossils and the history of life


Basic Science vs. Applied Science

Basic Science Applied Science
Expands knowledge and understanding Solves practical, real-world problems




Module 1: History of Biology and the Scientific Method 2