Biology is the study of the phenomenon of life. Biologists, whether they are researchers, teachers or students, observe living systems and organisms, and ask questions about those observations. In the following labs, you will have an opportunity to observe a wide variety of organisms. By the end of the lab component you should have an understanding of the basic systems of life and how they relate to the environment that they are found in. You will get as much out of the lab as you put in. If you have questions at any time during the labs, it is best to get assistance as soon as possible. The best place to start is to look in your lecture notes, lab manual and textbook. These sources will provide answers for most of the lab questions. If you still have questions please ask your demonstrator or one of the course instructors as soon as possible.

Laboratory Guidelines

There are a number of general rules that the Biology Department Expects to be followed when you are in the laboratories:

• Do not eat or drink in the laboratory


• Report all spills and accidents to your demonstrator immediately


• Always wash your hands at the end of the laboratory


• Upon completion of the laboratory exercises, place all materials in the area or container designated by your demonstrator


• Leave the lab clean and organized at the end of each lab period


• All sharps must be placed in the appropriate container - Never in the garbage!


• Brokend glass must be brought to the attention of the TA