Foundation of Biology: Laboratory Manual for General Biology I

Foundation of Biology Laboratory Manual: Laboratory Manual for General Biology I was created with a threefold purpose:

1.   To build a strong foundation for cell biology through laboratory exercises.

2.   To build skills in following written instructions and in making careful observations.

3.   To provide the laboratory instructor with the flexibility of allowing students to work in teams or individually.

      Careful observation and analysis are necessary in every area, not only in academics but also in every other aspect of daily life.  This lab manual along with support given by the instructor will develop these skills in the students.

      Each of the 13 laboratory exercises has an introduction that explains the concepts examined in the exercise.  Diagrams and photographs are included where appropriate to help students visualize an experimental setup or to provide a description of an aspect of the exercise.  Space is provided to allow students to record observations required by the exercise.

      A lab project is included in the lab manual to introduce students to the application of the scientific method.  This method requires planning, careful observation and diligent record keeping.  Instructions are given for setting up the project and for writing a paper in scientific format.