Animal Behavior in Meal Worms

Pre-lab preparation:

1. Get a copy of the lab in class from Dr. Kostenko.

2. Read through the packet fully.

3. Fill out/create an Experiment Design Plan (like you can copy the one you used for our first lab onto a separate sheet, and fill in accordingly).

hints: Think about the insects you've encountered in your life... for example, do they like to be exposed/out in the open vulnerable to attack, or do they tend to hide under rocks? Do they prefer salty, sweet, or sour substances when you've found them associated with food items? Do they prefer warm, cool, moist, dry, etc. surroundings?

There will be a number of materials available to you on lab day: choice chambers, and several materials you could potentially test their preferences for (substrate, sugar solution, bright light, vinegar). You are more than welcome to bring in your own materials (bananas, pretzels, sponges, rocks, etc.).

Remember, an independent variable is the factor you want to test. A dependent variable is the thing that will change in response to the independent variable.

Lab Day:

1. You will be assigned to work in groups of 2 or 3.

2. Compare Experiment Design Sheets and come up with a unified "best plan."

3. Follow the procedure (adding in your own steps/tweaks/changes where appropriate) to set up your experiment.

4. Execute experiment during the double period and fill in the appropriate data in a data table of your design.

5. Immediately begin writing up a formal lab report in your lab notebook.

6. Record final data/results, break down your experiment, and complete your report for homework.

7. Turn your lab notebook by the assigned date for review by Dr. Kostenko.