Characteristics of Living Things Lab

What makes something alive? In this engaging, hands-on lab, students become scientists, using microscopes and critical thinking to explore the key characteristics of life. By examining a diverse set of real-world samples, they’ll analyze evidence of life processes and sharpen their observation and classification skills—just like real biologists!

Why Teachers Love This Lab:

✅ Hands-On & Inquiry-Based – Students actively investigate and draw conclusions about what defines life.
✅ Enhances Scientific Thinking – Develops critical thinking as students analyze, justify, and record observations.
✅ Real-World Connections – Uses everyday materials to make abstract concepts tangible and meaningful.
✅ Boosts Microscopy Skills – Provides valuable practice with microscopes and detailed observation techniques.
✅ Perfect for Middle & High School – Aligned with biology and life science standards.

What’s Included?

• Student Lab Worksheet – Step-by-step instructions for observation and analysis.
• Instructor Answer Key – Saves you time with complete answers and explanations.

Required Materials:

• Microscope & Prepared Slides (Pond Water & Yogurt) – For close-up life investigations.
• Plant Leaf Sample – Observe cell structure and function.
• Sand Sample – Explore the boundaries between living and non-living.
• Boiled Egg & Yogurt (with Active Cultures) – Compare living cells to non-living matter.
• Fresh Fruit Slice – Investigate organic structures.
• Small Metal Object (Paperclip, Coin, etc.) – Examine an inorganic comparison.
• Seashell – Debate its classification using scientific reasoning.

Transform your students into young biologists—order this engaging, thought-provoking lab today!