Experience the magic of biology in your own home lab. This hands-on
introduction includes more than 30 educational (and fun) experiments
that help you explore this fascinating field on your own. Perfect for
middle- and high-school students and DIY enthusiasts, this full-color
guide teaches you the basics of biology lab work and shows you how to
set up a safe lab at home.
The Illustrated Guide to Home Biology Experiments is also written with
the needs of homeschoolers firmly in mind, as well as adults who are
eager to explore the science of nature as a life-long hobby. To get the
most from the experiments, we recommend using this guide in conjunction
with a standard biology text, such as the freely downloadable CK-12
Biology (ck-12.org).
- Master the use of the microscope, including sectioning and staining
- Build and observe microcosms, soda-bottle worlds of pond life
- Investigate the chemistry of life from simple acids, bases, and
buffers to complex carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, enzymes, and DNA
- Extract, isolate, and observe DNA
- Explore photosynthesis, osmosis, nitrogen fixation, and other life
processes
- Investigate the cell cycle (mitosis and cytokinesis)
- Observe populations and ecosystems, and perform air and water
pollution tests
- Investigate genetics and inheritance
- Do hands-on microbiology, from simple culturing to micro-evolution of
bacteria by forced selection
- Gain hands-on lab experience to prepare for the AP Biology exam
Through their company, The Home Scientist, LLC
(thehomescientist.com/biology), the authors also offer inexpensive
custom kits that provide specialized equipment and supplies you'll need
to complete the experiments. Add a microscope and some common household
items and you're good to go.
