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> Volume 27
Tested Studies for Laboratory Teaching
Volume 27
Virginia Tech University, June 21-25,
2005
Editor: Michael O'Donnell
Host: Mary Schaeffer
Laboratory Exercises in Ecology and Evolution
1. Adaptations of aquatic insects to habitat and food resources in streams
by Amy Braccia and J. Reese Voshell, Jr.[abstract] [full text]
2. Resource allocation in plants
by A. Daniel Johnson [abstract] [full text]
3. Measuring Community Structure by John G. Kell [abstract] [full text]
4. Discovering Devonian Microfossils by Charlie Drewes [abstract] [full text]
5. Phylogenetic analysis by Robert J. Kosinski [abstract] [full text]
6. Examining Genetic Diversity in Disjunct
Populations using Random DNA Markers by Robert Sheehy and Judy Guinan [abstract] [full text]
Laboratory Exercises in Physiology
7. Effects of drugs on pulsation rate of blackworms (Lumbriculus variegatus) by Kelly E. Bohrer [abstract] [full text]
8. Personal Behavior and Partner’s Sexual History:
a Simulation of the Spread of HIV by Ralph Preszler and Amy Marion [abstract] [full text]
9. Water transport in plants
by Robert C. Hodson and John Acuff [abstract] [full text]
Laboratory Exercises in Microbiology and Cell Biology
10. Chicken wing microbiology by Mariëlle H. Hoefnagels and Mark Walvoord [abstract] [full text]
11. Bacterial Quorum Sensing and Bioluminescence
by David L. Popham and Ann M. Stevens [abstract] [full text]
12. Measurements of cells and organelles by Denise Ratterman, James Watrous, and Deborah Lurie [abstract] [full text]
13. Propagation of Miniature Roses by
Plant Tissue Culture by Michael Stone [abstract] [full text]
Laboratory Exercises in Genetics
14. Molecular Genetic Linkage Mapping in
Tribolium Beetles by Ann Yezerski [abstract] [full text]
Workshops on Teaching Tools and Techniques
15.Digital Documentation: Merging the Traditional
Laboratory Experience with Digital Imaging
Technology by Bruce W. Robart, Kimberly A. Ziance, and Melonie J. Dropik [abstract] [full text]
16. Development of an Inexpensive Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV) by Jon C, Cawley, Adam Vittum, Michael Barrett, Noah Muller, and Ross Irwin [abstract] [full text]
Mini Workshops and Poster Presentations [titles]
Abstracts (Vol. 27)
Laboratory Exercises in Ecology and Evolution
1 -- Adaptations of Aquatic Insects to Habitat and Food
Resources in Streams
Amy Braccia and J. Reese Voshell, Jr. [full text]
Key words: field ecology, benthic macroinvertebrates, inquiry, ecosystems, biodiversity
This exercise is a field study of the ecology of aquatic insects in a small stream. By using the
inquiry technique, students discover how different animals have unique adaptations for being successful
in particular habitats, especially at small spatial scales. Students also learn how these specializations
establish essential ecological roles for the aquatic insects in stream ecosystems. Thus, students gain an
appreciation of how biodiversity is not just a list of species in a particular environment; it also includes
what they do in that environment.
2 -- Resource allocation in plants
A. Daniel Johnson [full text]
Key words: resource allocation; soil nitrogen; root to shoot ratio.
Plants can extract a limited amount of resources from their environment, which can be
allocated to growth either above or below ground. A species’ pattern of allocation is genetically
determined, but is not completely fixed. In this lab, students compare allocation strategies between plant
species, and within a single species under different abiotic conditions. The inquiry–based exercise was
designed for freshman in introductory or non–majors courses, and includes an opportunity for students
to design experiments of their own. The general methods can be adapted to more advanced courses as
well.
3 -- Measuring Community Structure
John G. Kell [full text]
Key words: community structure, wandering quarter, plant ecology, sampling
A plant community can be sampled using a “wandering quarter” survey, a plotless survey
method that requires no set-up and minimal equipment. Participants zig-zag from tree to tree, always
heading in the same general compass direction. Data collected can be used to calculate several common
measures of plant community structure, including species richness, species diversity, relative basal area,
stems per hectare, relative dominance, and importance value. Hypotheses about the effect of various
abiotic parameters, such as altitude, or aspects, or the effect of various forest management techniques,
can be tested by comparing the parameters of community structure.
4 -- Discovering Devonian Microfossils
Charlie Drewes [full text]
Key words: microfossils, Devonian Period, paleontology, marine biodiversity
Microfossils are small, fossilized remains of organisms (animal, plant, or protozoa) that
require magnification for study. They usually derive from the hard parts of organisms (skeletons, shells,
jaws, teeth, seed coverings, etc), and may be imbedded in rock or exist as loose particles within soft
substrate. Research studies of microfossils provide insights into ecological and evolutionary
relationships among plant and animal communities that existed on earth hundreds of millions of years
ago. Microfossils also provide excellent hands-on material for science classroom education in general
biology, evolution, and earth sciences. The theme of this lab inquiry is biological, rather than
geological. Focus is on retrieval, identification, and characterization of selected microfossils ranging in
size from about 0.2 to 2.0 mm. Through hands-on discovery and examination of microfossil specimens,
students should gain new insights and greater appreciation of the richness of marine biodiversity from
the Devonian Period (ca. 375-400 MYA).
5 -- Phylogenetic analysis
Robert J. Kosinski [full text]
Key words: cladistics, cladogram, phylogram, phylogeny, phylogenetic, evolution, taxonomy,
bioinformatics
This exercise introduces students to analysis of evolutionary relationships both by analysis of
molecular similarity and by cladistic techniques. The molecular analysis uses both paper-and-pencil and
bioinformatics comparison of the amino acid sequence of the hemoglobin beta chain of eight
vertebrates. The cladistic exercises introduce students to cladistic principles, and then allow students to
solve hypothetical problems both with and without homoplasy. Students then test their cladistic ability
by analyzing published data on the flightless birds. Finally, students solve an entertaining problem
using “organisms” made out of nuts and bolts.
6 -- Examining Genetic Diversity in Disjunct
Populations using Random DNA Markers
Robert Sheehy and Judy Guinan [full text]
Key Words: DNA, RAPD, genetic diversity, PCR, electrophoresis, isopods
Molecular biological techniques are used to study naturally occurring genetic variation, and
have greatly facilitated the understanding of problems in many areas of biology. In this lab, we examine
two populations of terrestrial isopods in the Family Armadillidiidae using Random Amplification of
Polymorphic DNA (RAPD Analysis). RAPD’s are robust and generally species-independent. Using
this technique, we are able to detect and analyze genetic variation within and between two different
populations of isopods. This lab exercise could easily be modified for use in an introductory course for
majors or non-majors and would be suitable for any organism with low vagility.
Laboratory Exercises in Physiology
7 -- Effects of drugs on pulsation rate of blackworms (Lumbriculus variegatus)
Kelly E. Bohrer [full text]
Key words: blackworms, Lumbriculus variegatus, pulsation rate, circulatory system, blood vessels,
student designed investigations
In this investigative lab, students observe blackworm pulsation rate in normal conditions and
observe how pulsation rate is affected by drugs. This lab stresses the circulatory system, but can also be
used for homeostasis, behavior, toxicology, and nervous system labs. Part I guides the student through
blackworm handling procedures and initial observations of the blackworm’s behavior and circulatory
system. Part II is a student-led investigation in which the students design and run their own experiments
to test drug effects on pulsation rate. The students write their investigations as an informal report and
orally present their design, results, and conclusions.
8 -- Personal Behavior and Partner’s Sexual History:a Simulation of the Spread of HIV
Ralph Preszler and Amy Marion [full text]
Key words: ELISA, HIV, AIDS, hands-on simulation, epidemiology
In this hands-on simulation students evaluate factors associated with the spread of HIV.
Each student begins the simulation with an “uninfected” solution. They sequentially mix their solution
with a variable number of solutions representing potential mates, some of which contain an antigen used
to represent HIV. Students evaluate each individual’s final solution with a modified ELISA procedure
to screen for the antigen simulating HIV. They then use these results to reconstruct the spread of “HIV”
through the population. The results are evaluated in light of the impact of two risk factors: number of
mates, and mates’ sexual history.
9 -- Water Transport in Plants: Anatomy and Physiology
Robert C. Hodson and John Acuff [full text]
Key words: anatomy, dye, physiology, plant, potometer, sap, transpiration, xylem
This investigation presents a condensation of two, 3-hour laboratory sessions. In one phase,
we adopt a classic dye uptake experiment to determine the path of upward water transport in a detached
shoot. Photography of stem thin sections taken with a digital video camera aided by compound and
stereomicroscopes and a computer significantly enhance the presentation of observations and their
interpretation. In a second phase, we determine the quantitative role of leaves in determining the rate of
transpiration using a moderately priced, very sensitive and stable electronic potometer.
Laboratory Exercises in Microbiology and Cell Biology
10 -- Chicken Wing Microbiology
Mariëlle H. Hoefnagels and Mark Walvoord [full text]
Key words: aseptic technique, serial dilution, plate count, experimental design
In the first week of this three-lab series, students wash store-bought chicken wings in sterile
saline, serially dilute the resulting bacterial suspension, and inoculate agar plates. In the following
week, students count the colonies and calculate the number of colony-forming units per ml of wash fluid
(typically around 10^6 cfu/ml). They design experiments to test treatments that might reduce the
microbial contamination of chicken wings, and they collect the data during the third week. Instructor
notes include safety reminders, suggestions for incubating plates, and ideas for possible assignments.
11 -- Bacterial Quorum Sensing and Bioluminescence
David L. Popham and Ann M. Stevens [full text]
Key words: quorum sensing, bioluminescence, complementation, plasmid, transformation,
competent cells
The bacterium Vibrio fischeri produces light when it is growing symbiotically in the light
organ of certain fish and squid species. The bacteria sense they are in a light organ because they are
present at a high bacterial cell density, which they detect through "quorum sensing." We use several
bacterial strains, each of which carry only part of the genes responsible for the quorum sensing and
bioluminescence process. We use chemical and genetic complementation to determine which genes
are lacking in each strain by measuring their ability to produce and/or detect a quorum-sensing
signal.
12 -- Measurements of cells and organelles
Denise Ratterman, James Watrous, and Deborah Lurie [full text]
Keywords: integration, statistics, micrograph, cell size, micrometer, microscopy, SPSS, units
This lab was designed to promote the integration of a freshman biology lab and an Applied
Statistics course. Students collect data sets to be used in statistics for examples and projects, and then
present their findings in biology lab. Students learn how to determine the actual size of cells using
calipers for chicken eggs, microscopes with ocular micrometers for onion root cells, microscopes with
digital cameras/measuring software for red and white blood cells, and rulers for measurements of
organelles and bacterial cells on electron micrographs. Students are also introduced to SPSS software to
be used in both classes.
13 -- Propagation of Miniature Roses by
Plant Tissue Culture
Michael Stone [full text]
Key words: plant tissue culture, plant propagation
Tissue culture is a propagation technique widely used in modern agriculture because it
allows production of many clonal plants from relatively little starting material. During this lab exercise,
miniature roses are propagated by simple plant tissue culture. Students learn the different steps involved
in the tissue culture procedure, practice aseptic technique when handling explants, and observe the
effects of different hormones and nutrient levels on explant development.
Laboratory Exercises in Genetics
14 -- Molecular Genetic Linkage Mapping in
Tribolium Beetles
Ann Yezerski [full text]
Key words: Molecular, linkage, mapping, Tribolium, RAPD-PCR, Recombinant Inbred lines
Genetic linkage mapping is often taught using sex-linked traits in Drosophila. Modern
linkage mapping rarely uses phenotypes. This exercise is designed to demonstrate more realistically
how linkage maps are created today. The exercise uses RI lines of Tribolium beetles along with RAPDPCR
to create a large dataset of molecular markers that is then analyzed by a computer program to
determine linkage. In the process, students learn how a DNA extraction is done, how large numbers of
RAPD-PCR reactions can be set-up efficiently, how to run an agarose gel, and how to score and analyze
molecular data to create a map.
Workshops on Teaching Tools and Techniques
15 -- Digital Documentation: Merging the Traditional
Laboratory Experience with Digital Imaging
Technology [full text]
Bruce W. Robart, Kimberly A. Ziance, and Melonie J. Dropik
Keywords: integrated digital technology, digital notebook, digital microscopes
In this investigation, students will become proficient in the use of integrated digital
technology as they capture images of exemplary specimens with digital microscopes. Students can later
use these images individually to compose and illustrate original lab manuals (digital notebooks) or in
collaborative groups to design multimedia presentations. Students actively engage in their learning and
participate in high levels of cognitive functioning as they construct knowledge about the phyla they are
studying. The creative aspects of these exercises provide for a high interest laboratory experience that
taps into intrinsic motivation and leads to student success in demonstrating content mastery.
16 -- Development of an Inexpensive Remote Operating
Vehicle (ROV), Mountain Lake Virginia
Jon C, Cawley, Adam Vittum, Michael Barrett, Noah Muller, and Ross Irwin [full text]
Key words: remote-operated vehicle (ROV), video camera
This workshop details the physical description and use of a small ROV submarine, built in
2004 to explore and video bottom features at Mountain Lake, Giles County, Virginia. This project
represents an ongoing co-operative effort between the Wilderness Conservancy at Mountain Lake,
Roanoke College and Virginia Polytechnic Institute as academic partners. Mountain Lake is the only
natural lake in the southern Appalachian Highlands. It is a low nutrient, high altitude, sub-alpine lake
and associated ecosystem. In many ways the lake may be considered to be an environmental “early
warning” system for much of the Southern Appalachians. It is of particular interest because of its
unusual geologic structure (a fault and crevice in the deepest portion of the lake). It is also a cyclic lake
on the scale of decade to century, and has recently gone through the low portion of its cycle. The ROV
is constructed of PVC, with direct umbilical to the surface. It is controlled by use of 6 (12-volt)
electrical mini bilge pumps, and is outfitted with an infrared/visible light underwater video camera, as
well as dive lights. The ROV has been used to determine bottom textures across the lake, particularly in
the deepest portion of the lake, at more than 95 feet of depth. The ROV is also designed for educational
use of visiting groups by the Wilderness Conservancy at Mountain Lake.
Mini Workshops and Poster Presentations
Mini Workshops
- Quantitative Investigations of Hatching in Brine Shrimp Cysts by
Charlie Drewes [full text]
- Using National Public Radio to Jump Start Research Projects in Environmental Biology by
Ruth E. Beattie [full text]
- Developing Research Opportunities for Undergraduates by
Maggie Haag [full text]
- Using customized tools and databases for teaching Bioinformatics
in introductory biology courses by
Melody Neumann and Nicholas Provart [full text]
- Using Calibrated Peer Review (CPR) to Improve Student Communication Skills by Todd Nickle [full text]
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Beachcomber Biology: The Shannon-Weiner Species Diversity Index by
Kathleen A. Nolan and Jill E. Callahan [full text]
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Using the Slime Mold Physarum polycephalum in Independent Student Research by Janice Bonner [full text]
- What Do Students Really Know When They Enter College? by
Arthur L. Buikema, Jr., Mary. A. Schaeffer and C. M. Webb [full text]
- Using Lab Reports to Achieve Specific Learning Goals
in a Wide Range of Laboratory Settings by
Miriam Ferzli and Michael Carter [full text]
- Accessible Laboratory Environments for Teaching Biology by
Christy A. Horn, William V. Glider, Beth Whitaker, Katherine Kalisek, and Adam Langan [full text]
- The Beautiful Moldy World All Around Us by
Karen Romanyk [full text]
- Implementing Inquiry Based Learning in a General Microbiology Laboratory by
Candace L. Walker, Arthur L. Buikema Jr. and Ann M. Stevens [full text]
- Inexpensive Apparatus for Measuring Respiration and Photosynthesis Based on CO2 by
Paul Willing [full text]
Poster Presentations
- The bioMovies Project: Interactive Panoramic Movies to Provide
Virtual Field Trips and Studies of Microscopic Life by
B. L. Black, M. Niedzlek-Feaver, and H. Heatwole [full text]
- Mimosa pudica as an experimental organism for Botany Lab by
Cheryld L. Emmons [full text]
- Laboratory or Service-Learning? The Community Experience Is Part of the Answer by
Blanche C. Haning and Lynnae C. Flynn [full text]
- Unseen Life: Engaging Non-Science Students Through Microbiology by
Paula B. Lessem and Debra L. Wohl [full text]
- Interactive pedigrees: A web simulation by
Marianne Niedzlek-Feaver [full text]
- Low Tech Oxygen Consumption of Terrestrial Animals by
Ruthanne B. Pitkin [full text]
- Mutagenesis: A laboratory course module for site-directed mutagenesis
and gene knockout technology by
S. Catherine Silver Key, Ginny Hutchins, and Lisa K. Lyford [full text]
- Termites: Creating Your Own Colony for Fun and Profit by
John A. Acuff [full text]
- A Virtual Tool for Introducing Students to the Compound Microscope by
Robert Ketcham [full text]
- Using an Audience Response System to Engage Introductory Science Students in Lecture by
Karin E.Readel [full text]
- Pros and Cons of using Grasshopper Mark-recapture for Investigating Populations by
Richard L. Stewart, Jr. [full text]
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