94210 - Laboratory of Teaching Tools of Biology

Learning outcomes

The course aims to provide knowledge and methodological tools necessary to move towards teaching in the biological field with an integrated, transversal and interdisciplinary approach transversal with the chemical and geological fields. At the end of the course, the student is able to exploit the methodological aspects necessary to individually and collectively organize a training course in the biological sciences integrated with the chemical and geological disciplines and consolidate his familiarity with elementary biological preparations. In particular: (a) uses biological preparations safely; (b) is capable of collecting and processing experimental data of a biological nature; (e) includes the correlation between experimental observations and scientific principles; (f) is able to correctly set up a scientific report of a biological observation or experiment; (g) will be able to plan a teaching integrated with experimental and observational procedures in the field of animal and plant biology.

Course contents

Module 1-

The module aims to provide methodological-didactic tools in the field of Biology, integrating the theoretical aspects with laboratory activities, for the programming of experimental sciences in upper secondary school. The module also intends to promote the use of the laboratory even in non-advantageous situations and offer opportunities for discussion and didactic reflection within the science laboratory. This information should be used to develop educational paths suitable for teaching classes.

Contents:

The instrumentation of the Biology Laboratory. The optical transmission and stereoscopic microscope.

The methods for the preparation of samples to be observed under the optical microscope.

Laboratory: Preparation of microscopic slides and their observation.

Nucleic acids: DNA and RNA. Cell division.

Laboratory: DNA structure visualization. DNA extraction. Observation of cells in mitosis.

The evolution of the respiratory system in the context of vertebrates.

Laboratory: Lung model and physiology. Comparison of animal and human models.

Module 2-

In this module the emphasis will be placed above all on the shape and functions of plant organisms, dealing with their anatomical aspects and basic metabolic functions. The structures and functions of relationship life, reproduction and development are also considered.

The practical activity will be carried out with the microscopic study of cells whose morphology will be analyzed according to their specialization. Students will have to prepare slides and learn how to observe cells and their particularities. Cell viability tests, based on enzymatic activities. Reproductive aspects of plants: study of the pollen grain, its biodiversity and allergenic capacity, as well as polarized cell growth. Presence of pollen in honey.

Evaluation of the protein content of the different plant foods. Comparison between different plant families (eg. graminaceae and leguminose). Dot blot to evaluate the gluten content

Experiments on photosynthesis: Analysis and separation of photosynthetic pigments from leaves (eg. spinach and red cabbage) and using paper chromatography. How to "see" photosynthesis with a portable instrument that measures photosynthetic parameters (or alternatively observation of the evolution of gas from the leaves; we can see photosynthesis in aquatic plants with the measurement of the pH of the medium using indicators)

Readings/Bibliography

E. Padoa Schioppa, Metodi e strumenti per l’insegnamento e l’apprendimento della Biologia EdiSES

Il laboratorio di Biologia. Scienze Zanichelli

Teaching methods

Lectures and laboratory activities.

In consideration of the types of activities and teaching methods adopted, the attendance of this training activity requires the performance by all students of Modules 1 and 2 in e-learning mode and participation in Module 3 of specific training on safety and health in the places of study. Indications on the dates and methods of attendance of Module 3 can be consulted in the appropriate section of the course of study website.

Assessment methods

Oral exam, integrated with the other teaching modules, which will start from a laboratory experience carried out by evaluating both the didactic and disciplinary methodological aspects.

Teaching tools

Video projector, power-point presentations, laboratory teaching equipment

Office hours

See the website of Valeria Franceschini

See the website of Stefano Del Duca