Year 12 Biology Excursion

Year 12 Biology Students Get a Taste of University Science at Melbourne University

Our Year 12 Biology students recently had the opportunity to step into the world of tertiary science education during an excursion to the University of Melbourne. As part of their Unit 4 studies, students visited the renowned Mendel Laboratory, where they completed two university-level practical investigations under the guidance of laboratory technicians from the university.

The first experiment focused on exploring evidence for evolutionary change using Drosophila melanogaster—commonly known as fruit flies. Students were required to anaesthetise the flies and analyse the phenotypes of both wild-type and vestigial-winged flies across several generations of breeding. This practical involved calculating allele frequencies and evaluating the relative fitness of different traits within the fruit fly populations, providing students with valuable insight into real-world applications of evolutionary biology.

In the second experiment, students investigated immunity and influenza through a case study using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). This experiment involved detecting and interpreting colour changes to determine antibody levels, providing students with hands-on experience using high-end laboratory equipment and scientific analysis techniques commonly employed in medical and research settings.

Beyond the laboratory, students were able to explore the University of Melbourne campus and gain a glimpse of what university life and future science studies might look like. The experience not only enriched their understanding of key biological concepts but also inspired many to consider the exciting possibilities available in tertiary science education.