The study of biology can be confusing because all too often the students are overwhelmed by the complexities of molecular science and biochemistry before they have learned to appreciate the down-to-earth realities of biology.

The study of biology should begin with the study of those things which make up biology, the life forms of Earth. The heart of a scientist is built by observing life. Next, the student should be given a framework in which to observe. In biology, this framework is the classification system. This system is based on structure, so one of the first topics should be the study of the structures of life. Then, built upon a firm framework, the student is ready to fill in the gaps, the whys and hows of biology.

Created for High School students, Experiences in Biology 2nd edition from Castle Heights Press is an impressive 144 page Biology lab supplement for homeschoolers. Each lab includes illustrations along with detailed instructions, background information and critical thinking questions. The manual covers: Zoology, Human Anatomy and Physiology, Cellular Biology, Botany and Ecology.

Students and teachers are encouraged to select only 12-15 experiments from the book as some experiments and observations take more time. Among those should be a few dissections, lab experiments, several microscopic exercises and at least one long Spring project in ecology. Experiments may be done in any order, though you may chose to follow the order that compliments your Biology curriculum. An answer key is available in Appendix A.

Students are encouraged to use their own lab notebooks to record their thoughts and observations as there is not enough space in the lab manual to record all the data for the experiments. Students should also include their final report for each experiment within their lab notebook. You may purchase an optional data book for this purpose from Castle Heights Press.

A list of supplies needed for experiments is conveniently located in the front of the book. Kits specific to this manual are also available from Home Science Tools.

Experiences in Biology is sure to bring biology to life for your high school student and help develop a strong understanding of the framework of biology. The lab experiments are both interesting and challenging. The hardest part may be choosing which experiments to complete this year.

Retails for $29.95

Karin Katherine is a proud stay-at-home mother of four who feels blessed to be the mother of 5 year old fraternal twin boys and two daughters, ages three and 10 months. You are invited to follow her homeschooling adventures at www.PassportAcademy.com and her adventures as a mother, wife, homemaker, decorator and organizer at www.MommyMattersBlog.com