The Process of Science: Seven Studies of Life

This manual is designed for a first semester/quarter general course for majors or non-majors. Each of the "seven studies" contains simple experiments to teach students to think about the process of science and recognize its value as a practical approach to problem solving.

The manual offers a thorough treatment of a limited number of major concepts to teach students to make responsible decisions about biology-related issues. Each of the seven topics includes five themes: the history of science, the use of live organisms, the process of science, the development of higher thinking skills and the application of principles.

Each study spans one to five laboratory periods. Twelve three-hour periods are required to complete the manual, but specific exercises can be used for shorter periods. A five-week study on inheritance using fruit flies is designed to run concurrently with other studies. (A simple, time-efficient procedure is used to provide virgin fruit flies for courses with large enrollments.)

A separate instructor's guide provides a detailed answer key, instructional notes and preparation notes detailing methods, materials, sources and formulae.