Synopsis of Chapter:

Section 1: addresses the various components of the scientific method, and the skills that are needed to make scientific inquiries. The use of graphs, tables and charts, as well as written language as means of communicating data are evaluated. Students will discuss the importance of properly recoding data and sharing information.

Section 2: investigates the characteristics of all living organisms, as well as the importance of each need of living organisms.

Section 3: explores the theories of the origination and evolution of life organisms. A brief history is provided as are the works and contributions of various scientists.

Section 4: looks at the hierarchical levels of classifying living organisms which allows for a comparison of all living things. The use of scientific and common names and various tools for identification is also explored.

Chapter Assessments:

1. Composition Book:
Class work:
a) in-class activities
b) section assessment( pgs: 13, 18, 21, 26)
c) chapter assessment (pgs: 34 + 35)

Homework:
a) figure captions
b) reading checks
c) vocabulary (pg: 33)

2. Lab(s):
a) identifying the parts of an experiment(2 labs)
b) conducting a descriptive based and experiment experimental design experiment (testing a hypothesis)
c) classification of living things

3. Worksheets:
a) direct reading for content mastering (4 pages)
b) reinforcement (4 pages)
c) chapter review (2 pages)
d) enrichment (2 pages)

4. Report:
Select an organism (from any kingdom) and give its levels of classification. Use Figure 16 on page 23 as a guide. For each level of classification provide the trait(s) that are unique to the level. Follow the protocols for writing a report.

5. Test

Study Guide:
* Vocabulary
* Scientific method, science skills and communication
* origins of life
* traits of all organisms
* needs of all organisms
* levels of classification (Fig 16, page 23)
* scientific and common names
* using a dichotomous key