Mini-Lab #2: Criteria for Life

Apply what you learned about criteria for living

vs. non-living (Mader ch. 1)
e.g. This specimen can obtain and use energy, mutates
and has adaptations, responds to its environment, but
cannot reproduce except in a host
LIVING? NON-LIVING?
What evidence supports your claim?
Why is this evidence appropriate?
How does this evidence connect to and support
your claim?
 Directions:
Each of the objects contains an image and a
description. The description always follows
the image.
Select ONE of the objects to analyze.
Indicate which object you have selected for
analysis before making any observations in
your notebook.
Follow the format provided on the course
website and complete the mini-lab in your AP
Bio notebook.
1
 Characteristics/Processes
contains genes
has a syncytium (sin-SI-shum) or a liquid-filled
cavity
usually reproduce asexually
digests algae by secreting digestive enzymes
and drinking nutrients by pinocytosis
stays in areas where algae concentration is
high; when algae concentration is low, crawls
randomly using cilia
2
 Characteristics/Processes
Contains a cell wall and cell membrane
Some have a flagellum, some dont
flagellum: long, slender extension used for
locomotion
Most do not require oxygen, but do require
sugar
Reproduce by binary fission (binary two,
fission division)
3
 Characteristics/Processes
Contains double-stranded DNA as its genetic
material
Experiments have shown that they evolve
under natural selection pressures
Reproduce by assembling proteins in a host
cell
Classified by genetic material and shape
4
 Characteristics/Processes
Can be unicellular or exist as a colony
Cell wall is made of silica
Non-motile (w/ a small number of exceptions)
motile: able to move
Can form spores when environmental
conditions are unfavorable
Generally reproduce asexually, but some can
reproduce meiotically
5
 Characteristics/Processes
Experiences constant growth
Can come in multiple shapes
Made of proteins
Contains structures that are responsible for
different characteristics such as ability to
absorb water
Has a sensory function
 Grading:
Complete list of observations: _____ / 1
Claim is clearly stated, answers scientific question: _____ / 1
ALL evidence (both supportive and contradictory) presented: _____ / 3
Clearly explains why evidence is appropriate: _____ / 1
Statement connects supporting evidence to the claim: _____ / 2
Revision responds appropriately to peer review concerns and questions: _____ / 2

Score: _______ / 10