STRUCTURE/FUNCTION CORRELATION:
A lab exercise for General Biology
"If you want to know how a machine works, you must first know something about the nature and behavior of its moving parts." J.R. McIntosh and K.L. McDonald. 1989 "The Mitotic Spindle" Sci. Am. 261: 48-56.
Structure and function are directly correlated. An understanding of the structure of any object provides insight into understanding its function. Conversely, if the function of an object is known, it is often possible to make basic predictions about its structure. The correlation between structure and function is evident in both organisms and machines.
For this exercise, the class will be divided into groups of 4 or 5 students. Each group will be given two objects (you’ll have to share objects). Each group should answer questions 1 through 5 for each object. Each student in the group should keep a separate written record of the answers to these questions. Each student should prepare an independent answer to question 6. This assignment should be turned in at the beginning of the next class period. Neatness and creativity are important.
1. What is the primary function of this object? If you don't recognize it, consider questions 2 and 3 below and give an educated guess. Explain the reasoning behind your guess.
2. List all the parts of the object (at least all the parts that you can see without demolishing the object). Include parts like screws, nuts, staples etc. in your list. Make a small sketch to show the relationship of the parts (perhaps an "exploded" view).
3. What is the function of each part (don't skip any parts)?
4. Could this item be different in some way: shape, size, material, other physical characteristics (like color) and still perform its intended function(s)? If so, in what ways? If not, or if differences would only be cosmetic, explain why its configuration is essential to its function.
5. Could any of the parts of the object be removed without affecting its function (would it still work if it was missing a part)?
6. Explain what is meant by the idea of structure/function correlation (one paragraph, at least). Illustrate your explanation with at least one specific example other than one of the objects used in the lab. Hint: consider other simple machines or tools you might use.
This lab was developed by Linda Kahan at The Evergreen State College, Olympia, Washington.