1.2: Pre-Lab Activity

Integrated Human Anatomy and Physiology Lab Manual I: Fundamentals of Structure and Movement · LibreTexts

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    Interpretation of Research Articles as Presented in the Popular Media

    The introductory case study activities set the stage for a detailed examination and practice of the scientific inquiry process, providing a foundation to appreciate the meticulous and iterative nature of scientific research. Focused on real-world issues, we will we aim to illustrate the critical steps involved in scientific investigation, from formulating a hypothesis to communicating results. By following the journey of inquiry, we will highlight the importance of curiosity, critical thinking, and rigorous methodology in the pursuit of scientific understanding. We hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the scientific method and its role in driving innovation and discovery. Read the information presented below and answer the questions that follow.

    Case - "The Strange Case of BeriBeri"

    In 1887, a strange nerve disease attacked the people in the Dutch East Indies. The disease was beriberi. Symptoms of the disease included weakness and loss of appetite, victims often died of heart failure. Scientists thought the disease might be caused by bacteria. They injected chickens with bacteria from the blood of patients with beriberi. The injected chickens became sick; however, so did a group of chickens that were not injected with bacteria. They injected chickens with bacteria from the blood of patients with beriberi. The injected chickens became sick; however, so did a group of chickens that were not injected with bacteria.

    Dr. Eijkman designed a new experiment based on his own observations.One hundred chickens were fed whole grain rice and lived in the same environment (light, temperature, water, and living space). Then the researchers separated 50 chickens marked with a yellow dye on the wings (represented the experimental group). Other 50 chickens were set as the control group. The experimental group were fed polished rice. The control group were fed the whole grain rice. Dr. Eijkman researched this interesting case and found that polished rice lacked thiamine, a vitamin necessary for good health.

    Post Reading Questions to Demonstrate a Deeper Understanding

    1. What was the original testable hypothesis in the experiment?
    2. What was the manipulated (independent) variable and the responding (dependent) variable in the original experiment?
    3. What was the testable hypothesis proposed by Dr. Eijkman?
    4. What was the manipulated (independent) variable and the responding (dependent) variable in Dr. Eijkman's experiment?
    5. Define what you understand by the term 'Control group’.
    6. Describe the importance of the control group in scientific inquiry.

    During the lab session, students will share their responses with peers to make a collaborative discussion.

    This page titled 1.2: Pre-Lab Activity was last modified on Tue, 01 Sep 2026 01:45:39 GMT and is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Lakshmikanta Sengupta and Susmita Sengupta.