The Methods of Science: Properties of Life as Observed in a Slime Mold

 

Carolyn Ogren

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 1994, Volume 15

Abstract

The exercise entitled “Methods of Science: Properties of Life as Observed in a Slime Mold” is an introductory laboratory designed for students with limited prior laboratory experience. It employs the acellular slime mold, Physarum polycephalum, to introduce students to experimentation. The students gain experience in generating and testing hypotheses, including data collection and organization, making conclusions, and evaluating their work. Students perform assigned experiments during an initial laboratory period and then independently design and carry out their own experiment in the next laboratory period. This laboratory exercise also provides students with instruction in aseptic techniques and use of the stereoscopic microscope.

Keywords:  slime mold

University of Toronto (1993)