The weeks before Spring Break were packed full of new information on the different kingdoms. Classification is extremely important because it helps us determine the relation of different organisms, shared traits, common ancestors, and relative time of evolution. Our focus has been on how evolution ties into to classification and taxonomy. A key thing to remember is the order of taxonomy levels. The nmeumonic "Dumb Kids Playing Catch On Freeways Get Squished" helps one remember Domain Kingdom Phylum Class Order Family Genus Species.
First we focused on Kingdom Protista. We examined samples of different protists under a microscope during the Protista Lab. This allowed us to brush up on our microscope skills and strengthen our scientific sketching. We looked at various classes of the kingdom and presented on their sizes, genus and species, movement, method of eating, and notable structures.
To study plants, we took a more individual approach. Each student chose a topic pertaining to plants that she felt would make an interesting and informative lesson for the Biology and Honors Biology students. Carnivorous plants, fruits versus vegetables, and drugs derived from plants were just a few of the topics upon which the lessons focused. The lessons were all very unique and creative with a focus on interactivity. Multimedia was another focus of these lessons. Websites such as Kahoot and Padlet found their way into these presentations as well as use of home-made podcasts!
We also focused on animals, specifically invertebrates. This clade includes animals as diverse as sea stars, sponges, spiders, crabs, jellyfish, octopi, worms, and butterflies. Understanding the taxonomy was very important to this section. Phylum and class were the main levels that we learned. These organisms are all animals, and they all lack a backbone. The other group of animals that we will study later is vertebrates (more specifically chordates).
To understand fungi, we all collected samples of fungi we found growing freely outside. Usually I can find lots of fungi in my backyard, but this time I couldn't find any. On a search for fungi, I went to a nearby park, and I found what appeared to be a type of mushroom. I brought them in to class as instructed, but when we began to examine them, I found that all I had was a bag of dark liquid. It turns out that I had found an ink cap. Other students had gotten large mushrooms from around campus.
We were able to really dive into the specifics of the different kingdoms during these lessons. Before now, AP Bio focused on the mechanisms, phenomena, and structures that connect all organisms. Focusing on the different kingdoms and phylums allowed us to learn about what makes organisms different.
Originally posted on Christine's blog!
