Bio-Process Lab

Description:
This event is a lab-oriented competition involving the fundamental science processes of a middle school science program (Div. B) or introductory biology (Div. C). It consists of a series of biological questions or tasks which involve the use of one or more process skills such as formulating and/or evaluating hypotheses and procedures, using scientific instruments to collect data, making observations, presenting and/or interpreting data, or making inferences and conclusions.

That was straight from the rule book. In short, this event is about biology, the scientific method, and knowing how to use equipment like microscopes, etc. It is usually station-based, and often the difficult part is the time constraint rather than the actual material.

What you need to learn:
The majority of this event is covered in a 9th grade biology class, so if you have taken 9th grade Bio or are taking it currently, just make sure you remember the topics mentioned below.

The basics of the event can be found in a high school Biology textbook (in fact, most of the information for Bio-Process should be there). Knowing how to use/read a lot of the scientific instruments (microscope, balance, ruler, pipette, thermometer, graduated cylinder, calipers, beakers, and etc.) is also important. Acids, bases, and the indicators used to identify them (including what colors they turn, etc) could be useful as well. As in many events, the scientific method is good to know. You will need to know how to use or formulate a taxonomic key. Learn all about genetics: DNA, RNA, Punnett squares, genotype and phenotype ratios, chromosomal deficiencies(e.g. trisomy 13- Patau syndrome), etc. Know the difference between monocots and dicots in plants, and be familiar with the different plant parts. You may have to dissect a plant or answer questions on the results of such a dissection. Know how to read food chains and food webs, as well as other basic ecology things. Making graphs is vital- there is one on nearly every event. Usually, you will be given the data to graph, although you may have to collect it if it is a simple experiment. Other important topics include: respiration, photosynthesis, active transport, transpiration, osmosis and diffusion, cell division (meiosis and mitosis), cells parts and functions, and the difference between an animal and plant cell.

In addition to those topics, which will probably show up on nearly every event, there are some more minor topics that may also be useful. A knowledge of anatomy might be useful, including the bones and muscles as well as the other body systems. Blood typing, especially its connection to genetics, may also come up. Calculations on a food label have been mentioned in connection to this event as well.

A Basic Tip:
If you have anyone on your team taking Biology it is advisable that you put them on this event. It will give them the ability to study in class and already know a lot of the material with the exception of the stuff you haven't learned yet which they will have to study on their own.

Links

 * New York Coaches Conference http://newyorkscioly.org/SOPages/Events/BioProcess.html
 * Scioly Test Exchange