Introduction to the Scientific Method Termite Lab Introduction to the Scientific Method

Organized body of knowledge that attempts to explain natural phenomena Science Organized body of knowledge that attempts to explain natural phenomena Based on observations Process through data Self correcting

Termites Latin word “termes” ~2000 species Wood worm ~2000 species Decomposers (cellulose based) Highly social

Types of Termites Workers – wingless, sterile, blind look after nymphs, feed everyone, build & maintain colony, & forage for food Soldiers – wingless, sterile, blind defend colony from mostly ants Reproductives – functioning eyes only reproduce

Termite Communication Blind…no visual communication Pheromones!!! BIC pens

Possible Experiments Compare two different colors of ink for the same brand of pen Compare two different brands of pen with the same color ink Compare ink to pencils Determine if termites can follow a trail after a break in the line How sharp of a turn can the termite follow Own ideas?