henrico

Learning EXPERIenCE

In this learning experience, students investigated the biodiversity we have right here on Henrico’s campus. The advanced science students designed an experiment to test the effect that some factor has on biodiversity.  Students then collected leaf litter samples from the field, and brought them back to the classroom to identify any macroinvertebrates. After several days of data collection, students analyzed their data by calculating the Shannon’s Biodiversity Index for each experimental site, and comparing those indices with a T-Test. Students then wrote up a report and created a scientific poster using the Internal Assessment rubric as a guideline.  Students presented their poster to other classes and staff at a Research Symposium. 

For less experienced scientists, this was a shorter lab where we first went out to the field site to learn about biodiversity and develop our hypothesis. Then, leaves were collected and brought into the classroom in by the teacher, and students sorted through it and identified macroinvertebrates. Next, we calculated the diversity index as a class, and students constructed a conclusion.