Course

Lab Report, Written Product, and/or Research Poster

Apply the scientific method

Identify a testable research question related to plant growth

Formulate a clear hypothesis and generate predictions based on that hypothesis

Design a controlled experiment with appropriate independent, dependent, and controlled variables

Set up and maintain Fast Plants over multiple weeks

Record observations

Collect quantitative and qualitative data systematically throughout the growth cycle

Analyze collected data

Determine whether results support or refute the hypothesis

Identify sources of error

Propose improvements to the experimental design

Lab Report, Written Product

Follow lab procedures safely and accurately using materials from the lab kit

Extract plant-derived dyes or pigments using appropriate techniques

Test and compare the properties of natural fibers and fabrics

Observations and results are recorded systematically, including qualitative descriptions and measurements

Laboratory findings are connected to the historical and economic significance of plant-derived fibers, dyes, and pigments

Lab Report, Written Product

Identify the biological roles of key plant- and fungal-derived ingredients in baking, including flour, yeast, sugar, and fats

Describe the biochemical processes involved in baking, including fermentation and gluten development

Controlled baking experiment is conducted following provided procedures

Observations are recorded systematically, including measurements and qualitative descriptions of results

Experimental observations are connected to underlying biological and chemical principles

Findings relate to broader concepts of plant and fungal use in food production

Lab Report, Written Product

Utilize taxonomic tools (hand lens, dissection tools) from the lab kit

Use plant and fungal specimens or samples

Identify major plant structures, including roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds

Identify major fungal structures, including hyphae, mycelium, and spore-producing bodies

Apply dichotomous keys or other taxonomic tools to classify unknown plant or fungal specimens

Observations are recorded with accurate descriptions and labeled diagrams or annotated photographs

Use botanical and mycological terminology effectively

Lab Report, Written Product, Guided Inquiry

Describe the mission and functions of botanical gardens, including conservation, research, education, and public engagement

Identify specific conservation strategies employed by botanical gardens, such as seed banks, living collections, and habitat restoration

Evaluate the effectiveness of botanical gardens in preserving plant biodiversity

Connect the role of botanical gardens to broader themes of conservation biology and environmental stewardship

Written Research Proposal, Lab Report, Poster

Topic is of personal interest and connected to plant or fungal biology

Develop an original research question

Research proposal includes background, hypothesis, methods, and expected outcomes

Use effective methods and materials

Collect and record data accurately and systematically throughout the investigation

Analyze data using effective methods

Draw evidence-based conclusions

Findings are related to course concepts

Reflection includes challenges encountered, limitations of the investigation, and potential future directions

Poster, Oral or Recorded Video Presentation, Reflection

Poster includes all standard sections: title, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and references

Poster presents data clearly using properly formatted tables, graphs, or figures with accurate labels and captions

Poster uses clear, concise, and professional scientific language

Poster layout is visually organized and readable

Poster summarizes research findings and communicates evidence-based conclusions

Oral or recorded presentation effectively communicates the research question, methods, results, and conclusions

Respond to audience questions

Reflection includes a commentary about the overall research experience, including the scientific process, personal growth, and lessons learned