The Biology and Apiculture of Bees is a science curriculum, and which examines the anatomy, physiology, and behavior of honey bees. It also introduces the concept of beekeeping. Students will have access to inquiry and discussion with apiarists, informational handouts and suggested reading, and on-site visual lectures and activities. An end-of-course questionnaire will be completed by the student to demonstrate their accumulated knowledge.
GOALS
- Gain an understanding of the following: 1) the biology of bees 2) the relationship between bees, plants and people, and 3) the agriculture and business side of honey, pollen, propolis, and wax.
- Acquire biology and life science concepts and conduct apicultural science by engaging in an in-depth study of bees.
Specific goals include the following:
- Learn about the honey bees’ physical and behavioral characteristics and adaptations.
- Learn about the many roles of honey bees in a colony.
- Become aware of the symbiotic relationship between bees and plants.
- Learn about the chemical processes involved in turning nectar into honey and how wax is made by bees.
- Learn about the medicinal and value-added uses of honey, wax, propolis and pollen.
- Learn how to identify, prevent, and treat bee diseases and illnesses organically.
- Acquire vocabulary; reading, writing, and critical thinking skills pertaining to biology, life science and bee agriculture.
