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Learn: How Scientific Ideas and Methods Change Over Time
AQA GCSE Combined Science specification.
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Welcome!Welcome to today's lesson on how scientific ideas and methods have changed over time. This is a fascinating topic that explores how science evolves and improves through research, experimentation, and evidence. Let's dive in!
Why do scientific ideas change?Scientific ideas change when new evidence is discovered or when new technologies are developed to test theories. Scientists continuously test and improve existing ideas, which helps us understand the world better over time.
Why do scientific ideas sometimes change?
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Advancements in technologyTechnology plays a key role in how scientific ideas change. For example, the invention of microscopes allowed scientists to discover cells and microorganisms, revolutionising biology. Similarly, telescopes helped us understand the universe more accurately.
The invention of the {{blank0}} allowed scientists to study {{blank1}} in detail.
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The role of experimentsExperiments are essential in science because they test ideas and provide evidence. When experiments produce results that don't match existing theories, scientists may need to revise their ideas or develop new ones.
What happens if an experiment shows results that don't match a theory?
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Historical examplesMany scientific ideas have changed over time. For example, people once believed the Earth was the centre of the universe. This was replaced by the heliocentric model, which was supported by evidence from telescopes and observations of planetary motion.
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How do scientists share their discoveries?Scientists publish their work in peer-reviewed journals to ensure their findings are accurate and reliable. Peer review allows other experts to evaluate the research, helping to prevent errors and improve the quality of science.
Why is peer review important in science?
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about how scientific ideas and methods change over time. Let's review the key concepts with some questions.
Which of the following are examples of scientific ideas changing over time? (Select all that apply)
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The {{blank0}} model shows the Sun at the centre of the solar system, replacing the earlier {{blank1}} model.
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Well done!You’ve completed the lesson on how scientific ideas and methods change over time. Keep exploring the world of science and question everything to make new discoveries!
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