Biology - HOT Science Lab

Teacher
Classification – Fishing for Protists
(Adapted from: Biology Exploring Life. Prentice Hall)
NGSSS:
SC.912.L.15.6 Discuss distinguishing characteristics of the domains and kingdoms of living
organisms. (AA)
Purpose of Lab/Activity:
The student will be able to observe different types of protists in aquatic ecosystems and
compare how those living near the surface of the water differ from those living near the
bottom.
The student will be able to construct a dichotomous key using the protists studied.
Prerequisite:
Students should be able to know the names of anatomical structures of protists.
Students should be familiar with the classification system of organisms.
Materials (per group):
Microscopes
Microscope slides
Protist identification key
Protist cultures (Euglena, Paramecium, Amoeba, and Stentor).
Procedures: Day of Activity:
Before
activity:
During
activity:
After
activity:
What the teacher will do:
a. Collect pond or canal water from your area and check for protists for use in
the lab. Make sure to include algae or other type of producer in the water in
order to keep the protists alive for a longer period of time.
b. Discuss the following essential questions:
1. What kind of organisms do you think you will find in the water samples
2. Predict features in protists that can be used to classify them.
3. Activate students‘ prior knowledge of protists and engage their interest.
4. Show the students pictures of protists and prompt them to see if they
know: ―How they are classified‖, ―Where do we find them in our
environment‖
What the teacher will do:
a. Reinforce the expectations of the lab and review the directions.
1. Remind students to draw all other protists they see and write down their
observations on their structure and movement.
b. Review the following questions with the students.
1. What is the definition of a protist
2. What specific features distinguishes them from each other
3. What distinguishing characteristics allow them to be classified into their
own kingdom
What the teacher will do:
a. Engage in class discussion use the following questions as a guide:
1. Compare the anatomy of the protists in both habitats. What are the
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Curriculum and Instruction