Home > Subjects > Biology > Level 3 > 3.1 Practical investigation > Key tips
- Subject: Biology
- AS: AS90713
- Level: 3
- Credits: 4
- Internal
Biology 3.1 Carry out a practical investigation into an aspect of an organism's ecological niche with guidance
Key tips
- The teacher can give you guidance on:
- organisms suitable for study
- equipment available
- resource suggestions
- possible new directions
- format of the report (written document or seminar presentation).
- You must keep a log book. This is essential to prove the authenticity of your work, show your skill as an investigator, and record all your findings.
- You cannot carry out an investigation unless you understand the ecological niche of the organism being investigated. Remember, information about the ecological niche will also be used to write the introduction and discussion in your report.
- Plants are high maintenance. They take time to grow and need regular watering with sufficient water. Plants usually grow best in the summer months so you will have to get onto an investigation involving plants early in the year.
- Plants need to be kept in a secure place away from animals (and young children).
- Animals must be treated with respect. Experiments involving vertebrates must comply with animal ethics regulations.
- To reach Achievement with Excellence, you will need to brush up on your statistical analysis skills.

