SBI4U - Biology 12 |
the laboratory
Way to Glow! Bacterial Transformations
Ontario Science Center - Students entered a real biotechnology lab and used state-of-the-art tools and protocols to transform bacteria with genes from a bioluminescent jellyfish. They were amazed by the change in bacteria as they glow brilliant green under ultraviolet light. The application of molecular genetics and biotechnology enabled students to become more aware of the different ways theoretical concepts learned in class can be applied in the real world!
Eye Dissection - Sense of Vision
Vision is probably the most complex of the five traditional sense in humans. Photoreceptors in the retina, located at the inside rear of the of the eye detect light. Once light is detected, the particular image created for the brain has been focused by the lens located behind the cornea and attached to the cilliary muscles. Students had the opportunity to explore these parts of the eye through the dissection of a sheep eye. The sheep eye is very similar to the human eye and it allows the students and gives students a hands on experience with a vital organ.
The Effects of Osmosis
The movement of water is critical in sustaining life. Osmoregulation in the human body allows homeostasis to be established. In this lab students had the opportunity to study osmosis; the movement of water from an area of high effective water concentration to an area of lower effective water concentration. Potatoes were used to mimic a cell which would be subjected to various concentrations of sucrose solution. Students enjoyed the lab and most importantly had the chance to relate the theoretical knowledge learned in class and apply it in real life.