IAL Biology Unit 3

AS Biology Core Practicals

CORE PRACTICAL 1

Use a semi-quantitative method with Benedict’s reagent to estimate the concentrations of reducing sugars and with iodine solution to estimate the concentrations of starch , using colour standards.

CORE PRACTICAL 2

Investigate the vitamin C content of food and drink.

CORE PRACTICAL 3

Investigate membrane properties including the effect of alcohol and temperature on membrane permeability.

CORE PRACTICAL 4

Investigate the effect of temperature, pH, enzyme concentration and substrate concentration on the initial rate of enzyme-catalysed reactions.

CORE PRACTICAL 5

(i) Use a light microscope to make observations and labelled drawings of suitable animal cells

(ii) Use a graticule with a microscope to make measurements and understand the concept of scale

CORE PRACTICAL 6

Prepare and stain a root tip squash to observe the stages of mitosis.

CORE PRACTICAL 7

Use a light microscope to:

(i) Make observations, draw and label plan diagrams of transverse sections of roots , stems and leaves

(ii) Make observations, draw and label cells of plant tissues

(iii) Identify sclerenchyma fibres , phloem , sieve tubes and xylem vessels and their location

CORE PRACTICAL 8

Determine the tensile strength of plant fibres.

CORE PRACTICAL 9

Investigate the antimicrobial properties of plants , including aseptic techniques for the safe handling of bacteria.