Terrarium Teaching Suggestions

Terrariums are frequently used at all levels of precollege biology teaching. However, the intriguing story of the invention of the terrarium seldom seems to be discussed. None of the numerous terrarium articles in the science teaching literature described it. Given the usefulness of history in biology teaching, the story of the terrarium's invention should be included in biology classes. The fascinating story of the accidental invention of the Wardian case or terrarium should be discussed whenever terrariums are used in biology teaching. Ward's description of the chance observation that inspired his invention gives students a rare opportunity to read of a scientific breakthrough in the scientists's own words. The story is an excellent illustration of how a chance event can lead to a major scientific advance if the observer is receptive to it. Ward's invention is also an example of the common occurrence of multiple discovery in botany and is evidence of the "publish or perish" concept. Consideration of Ward's invention is also an opportunity to link biology with history by considering people and events contemporary to Ward. Students could be asked to create a documentary of botanical people and events of Ward's era. A format similar to Ken Burn's PBS documentary on the Civil War could be used.