L2++What+is+Science+120H

Lecture #2: What is Science? 120H
This second class is a bit of a hodgepodge of subjects, including the definition of science, the scientific method, the metric system, significant figures, scientific notation and understanding the universe via either the science method or various belief systems (ie. astronomy vs. astrology).

__Due__: First Day Worksheet

__ Prep __ : In keeping with the number of subjects covered in this class, there are a number of items that require your attention, should you be unfamiliar with them. These websites will help:
 * Science Buddies introduces the scientific method, should your memory somehow falter (I'm sure all of you have encountered this before)!
 * Understanding the metric system (video) An elementary school take on the metric system.
 * Think Metric! A great site.
 * Figuring out significant figures in computational questions is, well, SIGNIFICANT!
 * Scientific notation is also notable!
 * Bruce Railsback’s take of “science” A professor of Geology at the University of Georgia, he has written a wonderful introduction to the subject.
 * Horoscopes vs telescopes A excellent article that explains the non-scientific nature of astrology.
 * Creationism vs. science A wonderful article detailing why intelligent design cannot be considered a "science."

__ Homework __ : Science Fundamentals Worksheet

__CTQ__:
 * 1) Give an example of how astronomers use the scientific method in their studies of the universe.
 * 2) Why does the scientific community use the metric system?
 * 3) Do you think the US will ever adopt the metric system? Should it? What would the pros and cons be?
 * 4) Why is including insignificant figures in a scientific answer ill advised?
 * 5) Think of a method to teach scientific notation to middle schoolers. Describe that method to a classmate in less than two minutes.