Vernier's New Lab Books Integrate Scientific Data-Collection Technology into Biology and Organic Chemistry Curricula

BEAVERTON, Ore., Jan. 18, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Authored by experts in their respective scientific disciplines, Vernier Software & Technology's two new lab books integrate Vernier data-collection technology and probeware into core experiments to teach students key concepts through the graphing and analysis of real-world data. Investigating Biology through Inquiry is designed for high school and college biology courses, while Organic Chemistry with Vernier covers college-level organic chemistry principles.

The Investigating Biology through Inquiry lab book helps teachers integrate inquiry into existing high school, AP*, IB** or college-level biology curriculum and is designed to meet the new requirements for inquiry in AP biology. According to Johnathan Melville, Ph.D., co-author of the book, "Investigating Biology through Inquiry is designed to cover topics in cellullar and molecular biology, organismal biology, ecology, and evolution." Each investigation in the new lab book includes a preliminary activity, teacher information, researchable questions, and sample data.

For educators new to inquiry-based instruction, the lab book helps them work with students to design and conduct their own inquiry-based biology experiments. "After a literature search, many students wanted to investigate the action of tyrosinase from other sources and compare it to the potatoes, so they did extractions from apples, pears, bananas, and even sweet potatoes. It proved to be a great inquiry lab," said Barb Burkhardt, professor at the University of Indianapolis, about the "Enzyme Analysis with Tyrosinase" experiment.

The lab book includes a CD with word-processing files of the student sections so that any investigation may be easily edited to meet individual teachers' specifications.

Written by former college instructors, the Organic Chemistry with Vernier lab book makes it easy for college-level organic chemistry instructors to integrate Vernier data-acquisition technology into their lab curriculum. The experiments involve characterization of reactions and compounds using the Vernier Melt Station, Mini Gas Chromatograph, SpectroVis Plus spectrophotometer, and the new Chemical Polarimeter. Experiments cover a broad range of topics and techniques, including compound identification, synthesis, chromatography, spectroscopy, and optical rotation.

Organic Chemistry with Vernier comes with complete student experiments, including materials lists, step-by-step instructions, data tables, and questions. An instructor information section for each experiment includes directions for setting up experiments, helpful hints, and sample graphs and data. The lab book includes a CD with the word-processing files of the student sections so that any experiment can be edited.

Pricing and Availability

The Investigating Biology through Inquiry and Organic Chemistry with Vernier lab books will be available for purchase in March 2012 for $48.00 each. For more information and to view the complete list of experiments, visit www.vernier.com/bio-i and www.vernier.com/chem-o, respectively.

About Vernier Software & Technology

Vernier Software & Technology has been a leading innovator of scientific data-collection technology for 31 years. Focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), Vernier is dedicated to developing creative ways to teach and learn using hands-on science. Vernier creates easy-to-use and affordable science interfaces, sensors, and graphing/analysis software. With world-wide distribution to over 130 countries, Vernier products are used by educators and students from elementary school to college. Vernier's technology-based solutions enhance STEM education, increase learning, and build students' critical thinking skills. Vernier's business culture is grounded in Earth-friendly policies and practices, and the company provides a family-friendly workplace. For more information, visit www.vernier.com.

*AP and Advanced Placement Program are registered trademarks of the College Entrance Examination Board, which was not involved in the production of and does not endorse this product.

**The IB Diploma Program is an official program of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), which authorizes schools to offer it. The material available here has been developed independently of the IBO and is not endorsed by it.

SOURCE Vernier Software & Technology