Biology II AP Core Labs

Links:

Purpose:
To allow each student to make direct application of the scientific method through development of a hypothesis and then test the validity of their hypothesis through actual experimentation. The student will also learn the importance of the following: experimental design, control of variables, verification of results through replication of experimentation, data collecting, and statistical analyses of results. Furthermore, the student learns how to write a basic scientific research paper.

Objectives Links:
I. What Is Science? What Does It Do?

Process Skills Checklist

Materials:
Materials for this exercise will vary depending on the individual student=s needs. Students will be primarily responsible for securing experimental equipment and materials they need to conduct their research project. Some lab equipment and material will be provided for the students, if the school biology department already has the equipment or can easily obtain it. In addition, the students must seek this equipment or material will in advance of the actual time needed for the experiment. A copy of the current year rules and forms will be given to each student. A copy of the OJAS research paper format will be given to each student.

Safety Concerns:
The teacher should review each student project and must sign all appropriate forms before the onset of any actual experimentation.

1. The teacher will review all research plans and OK them before the onset of experimentation.
2. The teacher will review all specific safety concerns with the student at the time of signing the safety form.
3. Additional forms and signatures of supervising scientist and/or adults may be required before certain research projects can start actual experimentation.
4. In all cases the teacher should review basic safety precautions pertaining to the use of chemicals.
5. The teacher should instruct students to wear a lab apron and their safety goggles or glasses when appropriate.
6. Remind students that they should perform only the procedures described in the student directions and only under the appropriate supervision.
7. Remind students that should an accident occur during this laboratory exercise, the student should stop work immediately and notify the appropriate adult in charge.

Revision Date:
Summer 2001