Table of Contents
Exploring the Natural World is a combination laboratory manual textbook written specifically for Survey of Biology. Four years in the writing, it has an expanded section covering the animal kingdom.
The Table of Contents outlines the basic contents of the chapter broken down into subsections with corresponding page numbers so that a major topic can be found rapidly.
The Contents can be used as a quick method of review. Mentally review your knowledge of each subsection in the chapter as a means of beginning a study session. If you can briefly explain each subsection you are ready to continue with the next chapter.
How Chapters Are Designed
Each chapter is divided into:
- general discussion of the chapter’s topic
- Crossword
- Questions
- Procedure
General Discussion
The General Discussion will provide brief background material which is used in understanding the exercise or experiment.
Crosswords
Crosswords provide a quick way to review terms covered in the general discussion. These should be completed only after the entire chapter has been read. Some terms used in the crossword come from the questions and procedure part of the chapter.
Questions
The Questions section is designed as a way to test your knowledge of what has been read. Answer come from all parts of the chapter, including the procedure.
Procedure
The Procedure represents the actual exercise or experiment which is done during the lab section. It is wise to complete any portion of the procedure that can be done outside the lab to allow maximum time to conduct the experiment.
Index
The Index, located at the back of the manual, provides easy access to a number of topics.
Consult the Schedule to determine when a chapter is due.
Quickly check the amount of time you estimate it will take to
read the chapter, complete the crossword, and answer the questions.
Here are some suggestions for an efficient way to study a chapter.
What To Complete In Each Chapter
1. Read chapter (Including the Procedure) - in one sitting if possible.
2. Complete the Crossword. (Use Index of manual to help solve the puzzle).
3. Complete the Questions for the chapter using complete sentences whenever space permits. It is OK to use single word responses for listings. Just use common sense. If you are unsure, ask your instructor.
4. Questions should be completed immediately after completing the crossword. These will be placed in a 3-ring binder. These will be handed in at end of the semester for lab credit. ALL questions must be answered to receive ANY credit.
5. Review the Procedure section of the chapter to determine if some calculations or other parts of the procedure can be completed outside of the laboratory. Pay particular attention to how calculations are done. Many chapters provide examples which should be studied and mastered before coming to the laboratory. Completed procedures are to be added to a separate section in the 3-ring binder, behind the questions.
6. Remove the Crossword from the chapter, trim the rough edges, 3-hole punch, and have it ready to hand in when you arrive in the laboratory. Turn in to the slotted drawer. No credit is given after collection from the slotted drawer. Multiple crosswords are to be stapled in chronological order.