Science is a way of understanding the natural world and relies on the use of empirical standards, logical arguments, and evidence-based decisions. An understanding of the nature of science requires an understanding of its essential components—the way that scientific knowledge is produced and the attitudes and abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry. Science is not based on myths, personal beliefs, religious values, superstition, or authority, all of which may be personally useful and socially relevant, but not scientific. This strand will focus on the nature of science with an emphasis on discriminating between what science is and what it is not.