I. Title of Module:

• Biological Investigations

II. Author:

• Nancy Roman

III. Grade Level:

• High School 9-12

IV. Nature of The Students:

• Urban Minority

V. Purposes (Course Objectives):

1. Students will learn about structure and function of different organs and organ systems using dissecting and analysis techniques.
2. Students will be able to collect, organize, analyze, compare and interpret data obtained.
3. Students will re-create the antigen-antibody interactions on the surface of red blood cells.
4. Students will learn alternative methods used in blood typing as well as techniques for blood detection.
5. Students will make a model of a kidney to learn about its structure and function.
6. Students will be able to perform routine chemical tests using simulated urine samples.

VI. Overview: (Course Description): 

• This course offers high school students the opportunity to investigate biological concepts that apply to the field of anatomy and physiology. The activities include dissecting, determining different aspects in blood cells, performing a urine analysis on simulated urine samples as well as on their own urine samples.
• The dissection of a Rat and a Shark is used to analyze structure and function.  The data obtained will be used to compare both organisms in terms of their structural/functional similarities and differences.
• The basic hematology lab will consist of several modules that will allow students to analyze different aspects of blood cells such as: blood typing, transfusions, familial relationships, antigen/antibody reactions, and inheritance patterns. As part of the module, students will also apply a technique used by scientists to detect the presence of blood on blood-like stains.
• A simulated Urine analysis is used by students to test normal and abnormal urine specimens for color, pH, specific gravity, glucose, and protein.Students test two simulated abnormal urines and determine possible disorders indicated by the results.Students also learn how diet, drugs, and disease can affect kidney function.

The schedule of activities is outlined below: 

SCHEDULE    

Day # Activity

1. Rat dissection part 1
2. Rat dissection part 2
3. Rat dissection part 3
4. Shark dissection part 1
5. Shark dissection part 2
6. Basic Hematology part 1
7. Basic Hematology part 2
8. Kidney study: Urinalysis

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Last Updated August 6, 2007 by Roz Krakowsky
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