Category: science

Critter Quest Education, science, Uncategorized

Welcome to Critter Quest Education – Free Australian Primary Science Videos & Teaching Resources

Mr. Greenly

A message from Mr. Greenly, science nerd, nature lover, writer, and aspiring teacher

🌿 Welcome to Critter Quest Education
A message from me, Mr. Greenly

Hi there, and welcome to Critter Quest Education! If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re a teacher, educator, or maybe even a curious parent on the hunt for curriculum-aligned science content, engaging and ready to use in the classroom. You’re in the right place.

I’m Mr. Greenly, a scientist, writer, and aspiring educator who’s currently completing a Master of Teaching (Primary). I also hold a Bachelor of Science in Biodiversity & Conservation, and over the past few years, I’ve been steadily building this little corner of the internet: Mr. Greenly & Critter Quest Education. It’s now a home for Australian Curriculum-aligned science explainer videos and primary science teaching resources, created specifically for Foundation to Year 6 classrooms, relief teachers, and homeschoolers.

But before I talk more about the resources, let me tell you a little about how this all came to be.

Supporting Australian Primary Science Education with Engaging, Curriculum-Aligned Videos
🦎 From science to stories
I’ve always been fascinated by the natural world, by frogs croaking at sunset, ants working together on the forest floor, and fossils whispering stories from millions of years ago. That love of nature led me to study Biodiversity & Conservation, where I deepened my understanding of the world’s ecosystems, species, and the fragile web that connects them all.

But I’m also a storyteller at heart. Somewhere between university assignments and fieldwork, I began writing a book, a fantasy adventure novel for pre-teens and early teens inspired by my love for adventure, science, and the magic of nature.

The book, titled Pho Fickler & The Last Archaeopteryx, follows a young boy who enrols in Fogbow’s School of Natural Processes, where science, nature, and ancient mysteries collide. Set in the fictional world of Aileron, the story explores environmental stewardship, scientific wonder, and the battle between knowledge and exploitation.

I’ve been working on this story since 2019, writing, re-writing, editing, and collaborating with a small group of brilliant beta readers. It’s still a work in progress that I’m aiming to launch soon, but it’s a huge part of the same mission that drives Critter Quest: to inspire younger generations to care about nature, ask big questions, and feel empowered to learn.

🚐 The road to teaching
After finishing my science degree a few years back, I bought a bus and converted it into a motorhome. I hit the road with my dog Bruce and my bus, Nessie (short for Wildernessie) just over a year ago when the three of us set off on an eight-month journey, exploring the country, soaking in nature and, admittedly, feeling a little lost.

I loved the freedom—but unexpectedly, I also felt the absence of purpose.

It was during this time that I reflected on something I’d always wanted to do: teach. I’ve always admired the role teachers play in shaping not just knowledge but values, curiosity, and confidence in young minds. I knew I wanted to help kids connect with the world around them, especially the natural world, and to create learning experiences that felt joyful and accessible.

So, I enrolled in a Master of Teaching (Primary), and now I’m just a few weeks out from my first official placement. I’ve got butterflies the size of lorikeets but I’m also incredibly excited to learn, grow, and step into a classroom with real students for the first time.

While I don’t yet have formal classroom experience, I’ve spent plenty of time hanging out with my two young nieces (pre-school and Foundation years), asking bug-related questions, inventing backyard science experiments, and watching the wheels turn in their minds. That joy, the joy of sparking understanding, is what fuels everything I do here at Critter Quest and beyond.

🎥 Why I created Critter Quest Education
Critter Quest Education was born from a simple but pressing question:

What if teachers had access to short, accurate, curriculum-linked science videos and teaching resources they could drop straight into a lesson, without hours of prep or worry about relevance?

Teachers are time-poor. Planning science lessons, especially ones tied directly to the Australian Curriculum v9.0, takes precious hours. And while there’s plenty of content online, much of it is too broad, too long, or just not quite aligned.

So I started creating Australian primary science explainer videos using AI tools alongside my own scripting, editing, and curriculum alignment. The result? A growing library of short, engaging videos tailored to specific content descriptions and achievement standards, covering topics from Biological Sciences to Earth & Space.

Every video is:

  • Aligned to F–6 Australian Curriculum
  • Kid-safe and classroom-friendly
  • Designed to support teacher planning, not replace it
  • Made with curiosity, clarity, and care
  • Agonised over by me for hours—upon hours!

🌱 What you’ll find here
Whether you’re a classroom teacher, relief educator, or homeschooling parent, my goal is to make science feel less overwhelming and more exciting. You’ll find:

✨ Short science explainer videos, sorted by year level, and curriculum strand
📚 Free teaching resources (coming soon!)
🧠 Articles for educators, covering curriculum insights, environmental education, and teaching strategies (also coming soon!)
📖 Updates on my upcoming book, Pho Fickler & The Last Archaeopteryx

And all of it is infused with a warm, personal approach. I want you to feel welcome, heard, and supported. Like you’ve found a little ally in the sometimes chaotic world of planning science.

💬 Stay in touch
If this sounds like the kind of space you’d like to come back to, I invite you to:

  • Subscribe to my email list (via the subscription bar below) so you’ll know when new videos and resources go live
  • Check out the YouTube channel to browse videos by year level
  • Follow along with the blog for insights, updates, and inspiration

Teaching is one of the most human, meaningful things we can do, and if I can help take even a sliver of weight off your shoulders with these videos and teaching resources, then Critter Quest Education is doing its job.

Thanks for being here.

Warmly,
Mr. Greenly
Science nerd, nature lover, aspiring author & teacher
Critter Quest Education

Back to the Critter Quest Education Homepage.

australia, climate change, Coral, Critter Quest Earth - Videos, environment, Environmental Lessons, Marine, science, Uncategorized

Kingdom of Corals: A Magical Journey Through the Ocean’s Tropical Reefs

Mr. Greenly

Coral reefs are dying — but most people don’t even know what coral is.
That’s not your fault. Between the headlines, the heatwaves, and the heartache, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or switch off entirely. But what if understanding these underwater cities could actually reconnect us — to nature, to awe, and to hope?

If you’ve ever marvelled at a reef from above, watched a David Attenborough doco on loop, or just want science made simple and wonder-filled — you’re in the right place.

Please, subscribe now and dive into a calmer, clearer climate conversation. No guilt trips. Just great stories, beautiful science, and practical ways to care.

If you don’t swim but adore marine life, allow me to be your guide to the vibrant world of coral reefs. Whether you paddle in rock pools or prefer to stay high and dry with a cuppa and a good David Attenborough doco, one thing’s for sure — the Kingdom of Corals is a realm like no other. Today, we’re diving into the underwater cities that never sleep. Strap in, because this isn’t just another fish tale — it’s a technicolour plunge into one of Earth’s most astonishing ecosystems.

What Is Coral, really? (Spoiler: It’s Alive!)

Coral might look like colourful rock candy glued to the seafloor, but surprise! It’s made of thousands of tiny animals called polyps. These little critters — no bigger than a grain of rice — are part jellyfish, part master mason.

Each polyp builds its own limestone cup (kind of like a snail with a love of architecture). Together, they form vast colonies that grow into coral reefs — the giant, bustling marine metropolises of the ocean.

Even more amazing? Coral polyps have a secret roommate: a type of algae called zooxanthellae. These microscopic plant-like buddies live inside the coral’s tissues, providing food through photosynthesis. It’s a perfect flatmate situation — the algae get a safe home, and the coral gets fed. In Ecology, this is called symbiosis, it’s a Win-win!

Well… Until the water heats up — but more on that in a tick.

Coral Reefs: The Cities That Never Sleep

Coral reefs are like underwater cities during a street festival — full of colour, movement, and life. Even though they cover less than 1% of the ocean floor, they support over 25% of all marine life. That’s a quarter of the ocean’s species sharing the reef real estate!

Fish in neon brights, camouflaged crustaceans, sea turtles, starfish, nudibranchs (Google those if you want to see some truly fabulous sea slugs), and even sharks — all rely on coral reefs to live, feed, and breed.

It’s no wonder coral reefs are called the rainforests of the sea. Except, well, with fewer leeches and a lot more fish that look like they’ve escaped from a tropical disco.

Why Should Humans Care?

When I snorkelled Lady Musgrave Reef, one of the pristine coral cays in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, I was absolutely mesmerised. The electric blue tangs darting between coral towers, the graceful sway of anemones, and curious turtles gliding past — it felt like I was floating inside a living kaleidoscope. It’s something I’ll never forget.

Aside from being jaw-droppingly beautiful, coral reefs are super handy for us land-dwellers too:

  • They’re nature’s coastal bodyguards, absorbing wave energy and reducing storm damage and erosion.
  • Over 500 million people depend on reefs for food, fishing income, and tourism.
  • Coral reefs are even pharmaceutical treasure troves, with scientists studying reef organisms to treat cancer, arthritis, bacterial infections, and more.

So next time you’re sipping a fruity drink on a tropical beach, spare a thought for the reef that’s keeping the waves at bay — and maybe even helping future you stay healthy.

Trouble in Paradise

Now, here’s where things get a little heavy. Like every great kingdom, the coral realm is under threat.

Climate Change and Coral Bleaching

Remember those algae roommates we mentioned? Coral needs them to survive. But when ocean temperatures rise, coral gets stressed and evicts the zooxanthellae. The result? Coral bleaching — the coral turns ghostly white and, without its algae, slowly starves.

It’s not just a fashion statement — it’s a warning sign. Prolonged bleaching can lead to widespread reef die-off.

(Garbage in the ocean source: Marine Pollution Stock photos by Vecteezy)

Plastic Pollution and Chemicals

Corals are being choked by plastic debris, which can block sunlight and leach toxins into the water. Even our sunscreens are part of the problem — many contain chemicals like oxybenzone that damage coral DNA.

Yep, your holiday SPF might be giving the reef a headache.

Overfishing

Every reef has its food chain, and overfishing throws it out of whack. For example, parrotfish (the guys who chomp on coral and poop out sand — you’re literally sunbaking on their handiwork) help keep algae from smothering the reef.

Remove too many of them and the algae builds up quickly, smothering the coral until it can’t breathe. Without grazers like parrotfish, the reef struggles to stay healthy.

But Don’t Panic — There’s Hope!

Now for the good news: we can all help keep the Kingdom of Corals alive and thriving. No flippers required!

Here’s what you can do:

  • Reduce your carbon footprint: Ride a bike, use public transport, eat less meat, and switch to renewables where you can.
  • Say no to single-use plastics: Bring your own bags, bottles and straws. Skip the cling wrap.
  • Choose sustainable seafood: Look for the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) or similar certifications such as the Australian Sustainable Seafood Guide.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen: Check labels for oxybenzone and octinoxate, and avoid them.
  • Support reef conservation: Donate to organisations or volunteer with marine projects.

Remember, even the smallest actions ripple out — just like waves on a healthy ocean.

Dive Deeper — Watch the Kingdom of Corals Come to Life!

Want to see the reefs in full technicolour? Check out my video “Kingdom of Corals” on Critter Quest Earth via the link below. My YouTube channel’s packed with adventure and the magic of nature! And, for more wild stories and science fun the whole family can enjoy, don’t forget to subscribe to my blog.

From the reef to the rainforest, we’re just getting started!

Please subscribe to receive my latest posts about nature & science straight to your email inbox. 🌏👩🏽‍🔬😀

australia, Critter Quest Earth - Videos, environment, Environmental Lessons, marsupial, science, Uncategorized

Marsupial Magic: Meet Australia’s Pouch-Protecting Wildlife Wonders!

Mr. Greenly

The first time I saw a sugar glider leap through the trees, it didn’t feel real. One moment it was perched quietly on a branch — the next, it was sailing through the dusk like a tiny, furry kite. Australia’s marsupials aren’t just adorable. They’re evolutionary marvels.

But many of them are disappearing before most of us even learn their names.

If you’ve ever felt a quiet awe for the natural world — and a growing worry that we’re losing it — you’re not alone. This blog is for people who want to understand, not just scroll.

Please, subscribe now to discover Australia’s hidden wildlife stories and the science behind saving them.

G’day Nature Lovers!

Have you ever wondered what incredible creatures call Australia home? If you’ve ever found yourself asking, “What exactly is a marsupial?” or simply enjoy watching kangaroos bounce about like nature’s pogo sticks, you’re in for a treat.

Here in the land down under, we’re lucky enough to be surrounded by some of the most unique animals on the planet. From kangaroos and koalas to quolls and dunnarts (say that five times fast), Australia is a marsupial wonderland!

Squirrel Glider

What Makes a Marsupial, a Marsupial?

Let’s start with the basics. Marsupials are a special group of mammals known for one iconic feature: the pouch. That’s right — it’s not just for show. Mother marsupials carry and nurse their young in a pouch, giving their little joeys the best start in life. Unlike placental mammals, marsupial babies are born incredibly underdeveloped and must crawl into the pouch to continue growing.

So next time you see a joey’s head poking out of a kangaroo’s pouch, just know you’re witnessing one of nature’s most fascinating parenting techniques. It’s like a mobile nursery — talk about multitasking!

Our Hopping, Climbing, Burrowing Heroes

Now, let’s meet some of the stars of the marsupial kingdom:

Kangaroos are the high-jumpers of the animal world. With legs built for bouncing and tails made for balance, these iconic Aussies can leap over three metres in a single bound. That’s more than the height of your average front yard tree!

Koalas, our eucalyptus-munching tree-huggers, are nature’s sleepyheads. They spend up to 20 hours a day snoozing — and when they’re not napping, they’re munching on eucalyptus leaves, which are both their food and water source. Talk about low-maintenance!

Then we’ve got the Tasmanian devil, a loud little legend with a powerful bite and a critical role in keeping our forests clean by devouring carrion. And no, they don’t spin around in tornadoes (sorry, cartoon fans).

Sandhill Dunnart (Sminthopsis psammophila)” by Alinytjara Wilurara Landscape Board, via Landscape SA, licensed under CC BY 3.0 AU.
Spotted Quoll

Don’t forget about the smaller marsupials too! Dunnarts are tiny insectivores that hunt at night, and quolls are agile predators with a spotted coat and a keen nose. These lesser-known marsupials are just as marvellous — think of them as the indie rockstars of the marsupial scene.

Why Marsupials Matter

Marsupials aren’t just cute — they’re essential to Australia’s ecosystems. Each species plays a role in keeping the balance:

  • Wombats, and wallabies are nature’s landscapers, helping to spread seeds and aerate the soil.
  • Possums act as insect control and pollinators.
  • Carnivorous marsupials like Tasmanian devils are nature’s clean-up crew.

In a way, they’re like the behind-the-scenes crew of a wildlife production — you might not always notice them, but nothing would work quite right without them.

Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat
Possum

Facing the Threats

Unfortunately, our marsupial mates are under threat. Habitat loss, introduced predators, climate change, and disease are putting many species at risk. From shrinking forests to deadly bushfires, their homes and food sources are disappearing.

The good news? There’s hope. Conservation efforts across Australia are working hard to protect marsupial habitats and educate communities. And that includes you! By learning, sharing, and supporting, you’re part of the solution.

So next time you see a kangaroo on a country drive or a possum in your backyard, give a little nod of respect. These incredible animals are part of Australia’s natural story — and they need all of us to help write the next chapter.

Let’s Keep the Curiosity Hopping!

Loved this quick marsupial deep-dive? Then you’re in the right place. Subscribe to my blog, W. A. Greenly, for more fun and family-friendly nature facts, Aussie wildlife wonders, and ways you can help protect the planet — one post at a time.

And don’t forget to hop over to my YouTube channel, Critter Quest Earth, where you’ll find vibrant, bite-sized videos packed with colour, fun, and science. The marsupial video this article is based on is only 1.5 minutes long — perfect for kids, classrooms, and anyone who loves a quick nature fix!

Together, we can spread the joy of Australia’s wild world, one joey, wombat and giggle at a time.

Thanks for stopping by! Until next time — stay curious, stay kind to nature, and keep adventuring with your eyes wide open. There’s a whole wild world out there waiting to be discovered.

– Mr Greenly

Please subscribe to receive my latest posts and videos all about nature & science straight to your email inbox. 🌏👩🏽‍🔬😀

Critter Quest Earth - Videos, environment, Environmental Lessons, fungi, science

The Zing World of Fungi: Mycelium, Mushrooms & the Wood Wide Web!

Mr. Greenly

Did you know fungi connect entire forests through a vast underground network — like nature’s very own internet? Most people don’t realise how crucial mycelium is to the health of our planet. But understanding this hidden world can change how we see ecosystems, climate resilience, and even ourselves.

If you want to uncover the fascinating science behind the “Wood Wide Web” and learn why fungi might hold keys to solving some of our biggest environmental challenges, you’re in the right place.

Please, take a second and subscribe now to join our community. You’ll recieve clear, evidence-based insights about fungi and how they impact climate and biodiversity straight to your inbox.

The Amazing World of Fungi and Mycelium: A Fun, Family-Friendly Dive Beneath Your Feet

What if we told you that right beneath your feet, a secret world was quietly working its magic? A world of colourful organisms, glowing mushrooms, and an underground internet made of living fibres. No, it’s not science fiction. It’s fungi – one of the planet’s most fascinating and unsung life forms.

Welcome to my blog, where I dig deep (sometimes literally) into the marvels of the natural world. Today, we’re diving head-first into the enchanting and often hilarious world of fungi. And yes, there will be mushroom puns. You’ve been warned.

What Are Fungi, really? (Hint: Not Just Mushrooms on Pizza)

If someone says “fungi” and your first thought is pizza toppings or the mouldy bread at the back of the pantry, you’re not alone – but you’re definitely missing out. Fungi are actually part of a completely separate kingdom of life, distinct from plants and animals. That’s right, these squishy wonders have their own corner in nature’s family tree.

From glowing bioluminescent mushrooms that light up forest floors like tiny lanterns to rainbow-hued caps in every shape imaginable, fungi are anything but boring. Some look like antlers, others like mini parasols, and a few could easily pass for something out of a science fiction flick. You’ll find them thriving in Tassie’s lush rainforests, dotting the red earth of the outback, and nestled in your local bushland.

And the next time you’re out on a family walk, challenge the kids to a fungi-spotting competition. You’ll be surprised how many are hiding in plain sight.

Mycelium: Nature’s Internet (And the Wood Wide Web)

Now, here’s where fungi take it to the next level. Beneath the soil, hidden from view, lies the mycelium – an underground network of fine, thread-like fibres connecting plants, trees, and fungi alike. Picture the internet, but biological and way more ancient.

This isn’t just some fancy fungal footpath. It’s nature’s ultimate communication system. Trees can send nutrients through the mycelium, warn each other of danger, and even support struggling neighbours. Scientists have dubbed it the Wood Wide Web, and we’re not even joking – it’s that clever.

Imagine eavesdropping on a chat between two trees:
“Oi, mate, aphids again.”
“No worries, here’s some extra sugar – hang in there.”

Okay, maybe it’s not quite like that. But the truth is just as incredible.

Fungi: The Quiet Superheroes of the Ecosystem

While they might not fly or wear capes, fungi are genuine ecological heroes! These decomposers work tirelessly to break down dead plants, logs, and leaf litter. Without fungi, we’d be knee-deep in forest gunk and debris – basically, Mother Nature’s dirty laundry pile.

By recycling organic matter into rich, nutritious soil, fungi keep ecosystems balanced and thriving. That soil feeds plants, plants feed animals, and well… you get the idea. It’s all connected, thanks in no small part to these humble heroes beneath the surface.

Next time you’re in the garden or out bushwalking, take a moment to think: is that little mushroom the reason this whole patch of green is alive and well? Probably.

The Threats Facing Our Fungal Friends

Sadly, not all is spore-capped sunshine in the world of fungi. Like many parts of our natural environment, fungi are under threat from habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change.

When the forests go, the fungi go with them. And when fungi disappear, the entire ecosystem starts to unravel – kind of like yanking out the wrong Lego piece from a delicate tower.

It’s easy to forget about the little guys underfoot, but they’re absolutely essential. That’s why conservation efforts are starting to pay more attention to fungi, and why we should all do the same. Protect the habitat, and you protect the web.

Before We View the Video, Let’s Recap – and Let’s Get Out There!

So, to recap for all the kids (and grown-up kids) at home:

  • Fungi are their own kingdom, not just plants in disguise.
  • Mycelium is the forest’s underground internet, helping plants and trees stay in touch.
  • Fungi break down dead stuff and keep ecosystems running like clockwork.
  • They’re threatened by human activity and need our help.
  • Also, glowing mushrooms are real. You’re welcome.

If that’s not worth getting excited about, we don’t know what is.

So, pop on your hiking boots, pack a snack, and head into the wild. Whether you’re in the Dandenong Ranges, Kakadu, or your own backyard, you might just stumble across a mushroom that’s more important than it looks.

Remember, don’t pick or poke – fungi are fragile, and many are protected. Take photos, admire their colours, and maybe even name them something silly like “Sir Spore-a-lot”.

Join the Wild Side!

Loved learning about fungi? Want to give nature a helping hand? Too Easy!

Subscribe to Mr. Greenly’s Blog to get fun, family-friendly nature facts delivered straight to you. Share it with your mates, your nan, your teacher — anyone who loves our wild world.

Join the Critter Quest Earth crew on YouTube for more weird, wonderful wildlife and cheeky eco-adventures. It’s fun, educational, and perfect for curious minds of all ages.

So go on — subscribe, share, and explore!
And remember, there’s always mush-more-room for discovery.

Please subscribe to receive my latest posts and videos all about nature & science straight to your email inbox. 🌏👩🏽‍🔬😀

science

Understanding Science: The Key to Knowledge

Mr. Greenly

Theme: Science, educational, inciteful.

Reading Time: 5 minutes.

Please subscribe to receive my latest posts about nature & science straight to your email inbox. 🌏👩🏽‍🔬😀

Throughout my blog, I plan to write informative articles about our Earth, its environments and systems, and what we can do to enjoy them and protect them. However, anything I write will fall on deaf ears if a basic understanding of science is not obtained by my readers.

What is science? And how does it work?

Science, or Scientia in Latin, means knowledge.

Put simply, that’s what science is all about. Building a network of knowledge.

For a more specific definition of the word as it’s used today, a quick google search would result in a definition such as this:

“The intellectual and practical activity encompassing the systematic study of the structure and behaviour of the physical and natural world through observation and experiment” (Definition: Oxford Languages).

Now, the key to that definition lies within the words “systematic study”.

Science works because it relies on its age-old, refined method of systematic study, or as you may have heard it referred to as, the scientific method.

This method is what makes science a robust tool for understanding everything there is to know. Or at least, everything there is to know about that which can be tested.

What is the scientific method?

The scientific method is more or less a problem-solving approach. It relies on a series of steps that need to be addressed and by doing so we can come to a robust conclusion on the issue at hand.

The scientific method is simple by nature and incorporates these 7 steps:

Step 1. Make an observation.

Example: My plants die during long, dry periods.

Step 2. Ask a question.

Example: Why do my plants die during long, dry periods?

Step 3. Form a hypothesis.

Example: My plants require regular watering to live!

Step 4. Make a prediction based on the hypothesis.

Example: If I do not regularly water my plants they will die.

Step 5. Test this prediction.

Example: Set up an experiment exposing my different plants to different treatments of water including no water and then various amounts of water at regular temporal intervals and collect data that can be used to determine the health of the plants, including whether they survive or die.

Step 6. Analyse findings and draw conclusions.

Example: An experiment of this nature would likely reveal that plants don’t simply die from no water, they also die from too much water, and different plants require varying amounts at different temporal intervals to maintain their health and survive.

However, as simple as the above steps are, and although they fit just about any scenario, simply carrying them out does not fulfil the scientific method. The most important step is still to come.

What’s the most important step of the scientific method?

The above steps and example scenarios may be enough for the person or scientist carrying them out to say.

“It is likely that the amount of water and the frequency of watering affects a plant’s health”.

But a good experiment and a scientist who has reported unbiasedly on their results should also state.

“However, the degree to which water affects any plant’s health depends on the species of plant in question and other variables such as climate, weather, and soil type/nutrients are likely to play a role”.

As you can see the above statements offer no real, strong conclusion.

That’s because the most important steps of the scientific method are:

Repetition and follow on research.

Any robust scientific conclusion can only be drawn after repeat testing and scrutiny has taken place.

If a hypothesis is initially disproven, that hypothesis will be rejected. Importantly, even rejected hypotheses are then subject to ongoing scrutiny and testing and this ensures no hypothesis is widely accepted as rejected until a significant amount of evidence amounts to do so.

Basically, one stand-alone experiment or a couple of experiments, are not enough.

Once a hypothesis has been tested time and time again and has stood up against all scrutiny and testing while accumulating a significant amount of evidence to support it, then and only then will it be accepted by the scientific community as being a strongly supported hypothesis.

Strongly supported hypotheses, that have stood the test of time and continue to do so while providing a foundation for understanding, will likely go on to become scientific theory.

Importantly, rejected or supported hypotheses will always pave the way for follow on research. For instance, in our example study above, the results have paved the way for further research investigating more species-specific outcomes and controlling variables such as climate, weather, and soil type/nutrient availability.

All studies will close a door (while leaving it ajar) and in the same turn open a new one for further investigation.

It is commonly accepted within the scientific community that had it not been for the vast amounts of research compiled before ours, we would not be able to draw the conclusions we have come to today.

“If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants” – Isaac Newton, 1675.

The above statement is now often used to symbolise scientific progress.

Two of science’s giants, left: Charles Darwin, right: Albert Einstein.

What’s the difference between a theory and a scientific theory?

The term “theory” when used in common language refers to:

“An idea used to account for a situation or justify a course of action” (Definition: Oxford Languages).

For example, if I were at school and I were to say that I was stressed out, a suitable theory offered by my peer, or a teacher may be that I have had a large workload and was simply struggling to keep up with it. Charles Darwin had a theory on the origin of species being by means of natural selection.

Now stand alone, these are both just theories and theories alone.

The difference between a theory and a scientific theory relies on the scientific method.

Charles Darwin had accumulated a strong amount of evidence from across the globe to support his theory of evolution. That theory has also been tested using the scientific method since 1859 (over 150 years) and has survived so much scepticism, scrutiny and testing to which it has never been disproved only supported. Therefore, it is now widely accepted within the scientific community as scientific theory.

I like to think of the term “scientific theory” as meaning the most likely explanation after significant amounts of scrutiny and testing, and therefore the closest explanation we have to the actual fact.

In summary.

Importantly, science, or the scientific method, is the best tool we currently have to understand our world, the universe, and the underlying processes.

As scientists and educated people, we must acknowledge that science does not and cannot prove things to be factual. It does however allow us to test things and exclude unlikely explanations through the processes of elimination and we can then strengthen conclusions by subjecting them to repeat, ongoing scrutiny. So, although we cannot prove “facts”, we can identify the best possible or likely explanation we have based on the tools, technology, and knowledge we have at the time of testing. This means that scientists themselves or at least the scientists with a good understanding of the scientific method will never refer to scientific fact; it is a fundamental driver of science that facts are impossible to prove.

A scientific theory is indeed the closest thing we have to a “fact” without being one. Examples such as Albert Einstein’s general theory of relativity, or Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution, are considered scientific theories as they are heavily supported by a large weight of evidence and, using the scientific method, all other possible explanations (hypotheses) that could be tested have been rejected. Quite simply, they have stood the test of time. Importantly, scientific theories provide us with the foundations we need to understand the world and its processes.

Lastly, science has been developing and utilised by us humans for more than 3,000 years now. To date, it is the best tool we have to make informed decisions that allow us to draw conclusions about our Earth, the universe, and its fundamental processes.

If you find a better way, I’m sure the world would love to hear it.

Thoughts? Comments? Post them below and I will be sure to respond.

Thank you and enjoy,

W. A. Greenly.

W. A. Greenly’s upcoming articles include:

  • The Mystery of the Australian Megafauna.
  • Recycling Made Simple.
  • The Climate Change Vortex.