GCWUF – Department of Education
B.Ed (Hons)
Subject: Method of Teaching General Science
Assignment Submitted by: Zoha Imran (Roll No. 521)
Topic: Define Science According to Scholars
1. Definition of Science
Science is the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the natural
and physical world through observation and experiment.
Scholarly Definitions of Science:
• Aristotle: “Science is the knowledge of causes.”
• Karl Popper: “Science is a method of trial and error—conjectures and
refutations.”
• Bertrand Russell: “Science is what you know; philosophy is what you
don’t know.”
• Richard Feynman: “Science is the belief in the ignorance of experts. It is a
method to keep you from fooling yourself.”
• Oxford Dictionary: “The intellectual and practical activity encompassing
the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural
world through observation and experiment.”
Science aims to develop explanations and predictions about the universe
based on evidence.
2. Scientific Method
The scientific method is a logical, step-by-step process used by scientists to
investigate phenomena, acquire new knowledge, or correct previous
knowledge.
Steps of the Scientific Method:
1. Observation – Identifying a problem or question.
2. Research – Gathering information.
3. Hypothesis – Making an educated guess or prediction.
4. Experiment – Testing the hypothesis through controlled procedures.
5. Analysis – Recording and analyzing data.
6. Conclusion – Drawing a conclusion based on the results.
7. Communication – Sharing findings with others.
The scientific method promotes critical thinking and evidence-based
understanding.
3. Importance of Science
Science plays a crucial role in the development of society and the
improvement of human life. Some key points are:
• Technological Advancement: Science has led to the invention of modern
tools and machines that make life easier.
• Medical Progress: Scientific research has contributed to the treatment and
prevention of diseases.
• Understanding the Universe: Science helps us explore and understand the
natural world and the universe.
• Problem Solving: It provides logical and practical solutions to everyday
problems.
• Education and Knowledge: Science promotes intellectual development and
critical thinking skills.
• Environmental Awareness: It helps in understanding and addressing issues
like pollution, climate change, and conservation.
4. Branches of Science
Science is broadly divided into three main branches:
1. Physical Science
- Concerned with non-living systems.
- Includes:
- Physics – Study of matter, energy, and their interactions.
- Chemistry – Study of substances and how they change.
2. Life Science (Biological Science)
- Study of living organisms.
- Includes:
- Biology – Study of life and living organisms.
- Zoology – Study of animals.
- Botany – Study of plants.
- Microbiology – Study of microscopic organisms.
3. Earth and Space Science
- Study of Earth and the universe beyond it.
- Includes:
- Geology – Study of Earth's structure and materials.
- Meteorology – Study of weather and atmosphere.
- Astronomy – Study of celestial bodies and the universe.
- Oceanography – Study of oceans and marine life.
Conclusion
Science is a vital tool in understanding the world around us. It is not only a
body of knowledge but also a method of gaining knowledge. Through the
scientific method, science builds reliable, testable explanations that
contribute to human advancement in various fields.
