Rationale:

We (the class) narrowed down the scientific question to make it possible for testing. We also collected soil samples that was related to the question to see whether or not there is a relation between the three factors: area, species and presence of phage.

Procedure:

• We discussed, as a class, of what the scientific question should be, which would result in clear results. We also determined the question based on which question would require the least amount of variables which would allow us to receive more clear results. We soon decided that the question should involve whether or not the presence of phages is determined by which area the tree is in and the species of the tree.
• After consulting with the others at the table, my group decided to collect soil samples from a white oak in the area around Texana.
• I collected my measuring tape, plastic scoopers, 15 mL vial, and a plastic bag labeled “Soil Sample 2.”
• We walked over the area and spotted a white oak (bur oak) in a garden near Texana.
• I collected soil that filled a little over 1/4 of the plastic bag.
• I collected leaves which would help to determine the health of the tree.
• My group and I measured the diameter of the tree; measured about 4.5 ft from the base of the tree.
• We measured the longest and shortest side of the canopy and found the average.
• We then found the height of the tree.

Results and Observations:

The diameter of the tree is 61 cm.

The longest side of the the canopy is 304 cm.

The shortest side is 141 cm.

The average being 222.5 cm

Using proportions, we found the height of the tree to be 740.50 cm.

The tree (white oak – bur oak) was in a shaded area with many other trees surrounding it.

The soil was wet and dark, looked like clay.

The leaves looked like a combination of green and yellow, with yellow being mostly in the middle of the leaf and little spots on the edges. 

Conclusions and Future Plans:

Overall, the bur oak in our area was in a shaded area in a garden near Texana with wet soil. The leaves looked healthy which is an indication that the tree is also healthy.

In the future, I plan to “wash” the soil which means to perform a filtration which would filter the phages and the bacteria to create my enriched and direct isolation samples.