Enviornmental Science

Population Biology Guidelines

Population Biology Lab paper **: Lab reports are written to describe and analyze a laboratory experiment that explores a scientific concept. The purposes of lab report are to enable students to conduct scientific research, formulate a hypothesis about a particular stimulus, event or behavior. The main reason for this activity is to understand the processes that influence the size, growth, characteristics and distribution of populations.

Do a lab report paper based on the guidelines outlined below. There is a two page (900 word minimum) for the paper. Use at least two sources for the paper and make sure you use the proper format for referencing your sources. **title page & APA references are not included with total page requirements.

Examples of a Lab Report can be seen at http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/maderinquiry/writing.html.

Purpose

In this investigation student will conduct a virtual population experiment by growing two species of freshwater protozoan Paramecium, alone and together. Students will then compare growth curves of the populations of each species.

Learning Objective(s) Addressed by This Activity

• Demonstrate how competition for natural resources in the environment can affect population growth.
• Explain how availability of resources, such as food, can be limiting for populations.

Description

Students are to complete the virtual lab found at the following website: http://www.mhhe.com/biosci/genbio/virtual_labs_2K8/pages/PopulationBiology.html

Students will follow the instructions of the lab, which are posted online. Before beginning the virtual lab students should download and read both the instructions and post lab quiz and lab report documents. Student can then complete the virtual lab using the table in the Lab Report to record their results. PLEASE note that student do not have to take the Post Lab Quiz, instead a lab report will be submitted.

Evaluation Criteria and Guidelines:

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