This class will serve as a lab companion to Biology: Cells Through Ecosystems. In this lab, we will conduct experiments that illustrate the concepts covered in the main class, help develop scientific skills, and showcase some of the wonders of the natural world. Our labs will cover various areas of biology, with a particular emphasis on evolution and ecology. Examples of activities include identifying plants collected from local forests using a taxonomic key, constructing a phylogenetic tree to understand how organisms are related, simulating the evolution of animal populations, examining cells under a microscope, and designing experiments to answer questions you’re curious about. If time permits, we may also discuss the concepts we’re learning and explore ecological topics that might not be covered as thoroughly in the main class.

This lab is intended to supplement Biology: Cells Through Ecosystems, and it is recommended that students take both courses together if possible.