Are you looking for a robust, lab-centric biology experience that brings life science to life? This course is designed specifically for homeschooling families who want their students to do science, not just read about it. We transform the abstract world of living things into tangible, hands-on experiences, ensuring your student builds the analytical skills necessary for career and college-level thinking.
Through a series of rigorous experiments, dissections, and data-driven investigations, students will explore the following core pillars of biology:
What Your Student Will Explore:
- Scientific Observation and Microscopy: Students will learn the “tools of the trade” by mastering the compound microscope, preparing wet-mount slides, and accurately documenting microscopic observations of cells and microorganisms.
- Cell Structure and Function: We dive deep into the fundamental unit of life, exploring cellular organelles, membrane transport, and the vital processes of photosynthesis (demonstration) and respiration.
- Mastering the Lab Report: In this foundational activity, students transition from “doing an experiment” to “communicating science.” Using data from our investigations, students will learn to structure their findings into a formal, college-prep document.
- Genetics and DNA: We explore the mechanisms of heredity, from Mendelian principles to modern molecular biology. Students will perform a hands-on DNA extraction and simulate genetic concepts like genotype and evolution.
- Biochemistry and Enzymes: Students will investigate the chemical reactions of life, conducting experiments to study the effectiveness of enzymes and the role of biomolecules in processes like digestion and metabolism.
- Comparative Anatomy and Dissection: We investigate the diversity of life through hands-on examination. Students will practice proper dissection techniques on specimens (arthropod and amphibian) to understand organ systems and evolutionary relationships.
Why Science Lab Matters:
In this course, we prioritize the Scientific Method. Your student won’t just follow a “cookbook” recipe; they will:
- Formulate testable hypotheses.
- Manage lab safety and precision equipment.
- Analyze data to draw evidence-based conclusions.
Note to Parents: This lab sequence is designed to meet standard high school credit requirements and provides the portfolio-ready work samples often needed for college admissions or transcripts.
The lab only class option is ideal for:
- Homeschool students completing biology at home who need a lab component
- Families using a textbook or online biology course without labs
- Students who learn best through hands-on science
Planned Lab scope and sequence (Subject to change):
Sept 11: Scientific Measurement, Lab Report, and The Leaf-o-meter
Sept 25: Biochemistry 1 – Which Antacid is the Best?
Oct 9: Biochemistry 2 – Enzymes make Apple Juice?
Oct 23: Cells and Introduction to a Microscope
Oct 30: Genotype – Alien Genetics
Nov 13: DNA Extraction
(winter break)
*Jan 22: Microscopic Organisms 1 – Prokaryotes
*Feb 12: Microscopic Organisms 2 – Protists
*Feb 26: Fungi – When Yeast Comes Alive! Activating Yeasts
*March 19: Photosynthesis Demonstration and Observation
*April 9: Dissection Lab 1 – Arthropod
*April 23: Dissection Lab 2 – Amphibians
*Spring Lab Meeting times to be confirmed with the Town Hall November 2026*
Students are expected to participate actively, respect instructors, and follow all lab safety guidelines.
