1 in the sampling area stake out a 1 ft by 1 ft

1. In the sampling area, stake out a 1 ft by 1 ft square in the grass.
2. With your partners, count the number of individual plants in your sample.
3. Using the large tape, estimate the total area of the entire sample, and
multiply out to figure out the number of individuals in the entire area.
Estimating by Mark Capture method
4. Collect a bag of beans and three markers.
5. In using one marker, take a sample of 20 beans and mark them all the
same way.
6. Place your marked beans back into the bag, and shake. Collect another 20
and count the number of recaptures. Record this data in your lab notebook.
7. Use the formula from the pre-lab to estimate the number of beans in the
bag.
8. Repeat this process using another color and taking samples of 50 beans.
9. Repeat the process using your third color and taking samples sizes of your
choice.
10. Once you have all three estimates, count the actual number of beans in
the bag.
Using Radio Tracking.
11. Mr. Ashton will take you outside and you will set up a grid. In the grid we
will place flags representing possible locations of animals.
12. Each group will be given instruction on which area your animals is, and
what they are doing. The group will need to decide on which flags to use as
your markers.
13. Using a compass, take the reading of 10 flags from two locations (see
handout). Record the compass bearing into a chart.
14. You will trade off the chart with another group and try to figure out the
range or activity of the organism.
15. Record the location of each measurement using the data from the other
group.
Data Analysis 1. Compare the value your group calculated for the population of grass. How
does you number compare with those of other groups.
2. Calculate the percent error of your mark capture estimate of bean
population for each try compared to the actual number of beans.
3. On the grid, shade in the section you believe to be the range of your
animal.
Questions 1. Where all the estimates of the grass population similar. What might be
done to produce a better estimate for this lab?
2. What rules can you make about how to make the best estimate for the
mark capture measurement?

3. What might make using the mark capture method difficult in the field?
What factors must be taken into account in using this method?
4. What uses might radio tracking have to an environmental scientist?
Point break down
Title, and objectives – 10 points
Pre-lab Questions – 16 points (8 points each)
Data from Procedure – 35 points
Data Analysis – 15 points
Lab Questions – 24 points (6 points each)