AP Biology Students Gain Hands-On Experience

Huntington High School was a happening place on Thursday; the first day of spring. Advanced Placement Biology students were able to get a hands-on experience with evolution by growing Wisconsin Fast Plants and tracking genetic changes over generations.

“By applying the Hardy-Weinberg principle, they’re analyzing real-time shifts in allele frequencies and seeing population genetics come to life,” explained Kevene Lowrie, chairperson of science, K-12. “From collecting data to running statistical tests, students are sharpening their scientific skills while making connections between math and biology. Students were excited to learning about evolution, giving students a deeper understanding of how traits change over time.”

AP Biology is a full year, one credit course. “This course is designed to be the equivalent of an introductory level college biology course,” the course description states. “Students are expected to have a comprehensive understanding of biological principles, cellular dynamics, chemical structures and chemical processes prior to entry into this course. Students are also expected to be self-motivated and capable of independent study and thus be able to meet rigorous academic demands.”

The course prerequisite requires successful completion of or concurrent enrollment in Chemistry with mid-year and/or final grades of 85 or higher and teacher recommendation.

“The course moves at a challenging pace and includes extensive in-depth study of cells and cell chemistry, animal and plant physiology, genetic applications, evolutionary theory and processes, and ecological principles and dynamics,” states the course description. “Under College Board AP guidelines, laboratory investigations are an integral part of this course. NCAA approved.”