Wet Lab Hours: Approximately 1.5–2 hours per week
Course Description:
This full-year biology course used the LIFEPAC SCI1015 curriculum by Alpha Omega Publications. It introduced major biological concepts through written instruction, activities, mastery-based assessments, and weekly hands-on wet lab experiments. The curriculum was delivered through ten structured worktexts and supported by a teacher’s guide.
Topics Covered:
Taxonomy and classification of organisms
Microbiology (bacteria, viruses, fungi)
Cell structure, function, and theory
Photosynthesis and plant anatomy
Mitosis, meiosis, and reproduction
Ecology, ecosystems, and energy flow
Genetics, inheritance, and DNA
Human anatomy and physiology
Applications of biology in health and agriculture
Wet Lab Activities (Completed):
Preparing and observing onion cell slides under a microscope
Growing bacteria cultures from household surfaces
Testing osmosis using potato slices in salt and sugar solutions
Dissecting a flower to identify plant reproductive parts
Modeling DNA using beads and pipe cleaners
Simulating genetics with Punnett square lab activities
Observing mold growth under different conditions
Dissecting a small animal (earthworm or frog) using a kit
Building and testing a model lung with balloons and bottles
Creating a food web and energy pyramid using real-life data
Lab work was done weekly using common science supplies, kits, and microscopy tools. The course provided 1 full credit of lab science.