Today there was a sub. A movie about Darwin's life was viewed and then a response worksheet was completed.

Homework: SN pgs 150-152 and 15.1 worksheet

Today we took the quiz over Chapter 14. We began Chapter 15 today - Evolution. Evolution is simply "change over time". Darwin proposed the Theory of Natural Selection which is the mechanism by which evolution occurs.

Homework: DUE on Friday! Science Notebook 150-152 and 15.1 worksheet if not finished in class

Today we reviewed Chapter 14 - quiz tomorrow! We spent some time discussing what had to occur in the atmosphere to make the environment suitable for life to evolve onto land. We also discussed the evidence that supports the Endosymbiont Theory. We also made flash cards to help us put into perspective the order of how life evolved.

Homework: study for quiz tomorrow

Today we finished taking notes on Chapter 14 - Quiz is on Wednesday!

Homework: Spontaneous generation worksheet

We spent the day creating a timeline of the Earth's history and plotting important events which occurred. We learned that humans have not been around very long!!

NO homework.

Today we looked at fossils and reviewed the different forms. We also reviewed radiometric dating and worked out a problem to determine the amount of radioactive material after several half-lives. We also reviewed relative dating. At the end of class, we worked on getting our timeline ready to work on tomorrow as we study the Earth's Geologic History.

Homework: Worksheet on Relative dating

Today we finished watching CLONE and discussing ethical implications surrounding the advancement of genetic technology. We have started the next unit - Evolution. Today we discussed what early Earth was like and the different fossil types.

NO homework!

Today we took the test on Chapter 13 and then began watching a movie - CLONE!

No Homework!

Today we worked on a "pre-test" for Chapter 13 and reviewed.

TEST tomorrow!

Today we finished Chapter 13 - Genetic Technology.

We will have a Test over Chapter 13 on Tuesday of next week (12/11)

Homework: Create 6 flashcards with diagrams and written explanation of the steps of creating recombinant DNA Hint: use your worksheet on genetic engineering

We continue to learn about genetic technology and the impacts it has on society. Today we learned that you can actually extract DNA from an individual, and create a DNA fingerprint which is useful in determining paternity cases and criminal investigations.

Homework: DNA fingerprint worksheet to determine paternity

Today we reviewed genetic engineering. We learned some applications of using genetic engineering. At the end of class, we began watching a video on the applications of genetic engineering. We learned that genetic engineering has given us the tools for forensic science and the cloning of desired traits in animals.

NO homework!

Today we learned about selective breeding and hybridization as ways to manipulate the genetics of an organism through breeding. We then learned that there are now methods which allow scientists to actually manipulate the DNA itself. We learned about recombinant DNA and the technology used to create it and why it is such a useful tool.

Homework: Recombinant DNA worksheet - double sided

We reviewed prior to taking the test then we took the test. After the test, we watched a video which previewed the next chapter - Genetic Engineering!

NO homework!!

Today we reviewed the quiz from yesterday - most did well. After reviewing the quiz, we extracted DNA from strawberries. It was a simple process to extract the DNA and we learned that strawberries are FULL of DNA. After the lab, we did some review for the test on Monday.

Homework: STUDY for Chapter 12 test that is Monday 12/3

Today we took the quiz on Protein Synthesis - I heard a positive response from everyone that you thought you did well. After the quiz, we went to the library to work on the virtual lab of mutating DNA. There were some issues with completing the lab so I asked that you turn in what you have mutated and then finish the questions on the back of the lab sheet. Please turn in tomorrow.

Homework: finish questions on back side of lab sheet

Today we learned what happens when there is a change to the DNA sequence - a mutation. Mutations are not always bad. We learned the difference between a point mutation and a frameshift mutation. We went to the library to work on a virtual lab but did not get very far. We will continue the lab tomorrow.

A Look Into the Future:
Tomorrow (11/29) - 20 pt quiz on protein synthesis and finish virtual lab
Friday (11/30) - review for test on Monday, extract DNA from strawberries
Monday (12/3) - TEST Chapter 12, begin Chapter 13

We spent time today reviewing protein synthesis. We watched a video which discussed the importance of the genetic code and its role in the formation of proteins. We began work on a protein synthesis booklet.

Homework: Finish Protein Synthesis Booklet and the questions that go along with it

Welcome back!

Today we reviewed DNA replication. We learned about the three different forms of RNA - messenger, transfer and ribosomal. Also, we learned how DNA with RNA form protein. Through the use of board magnets, I demonstrated how transcription and translation work to create protein. We practiced transcription and translation in class with a worksheet.

Homework: finish worksheet on transcription and translation if not done in class

Today we began with review over the history of the discovery of DNA. We learned how DNA coils itself around histone proteins. We also learned about the differences between DNA and RNA.

Homework: finish lab we began in class

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Today we reviewed the Discovery of DNA Timeline and looked more closely at the experiments that lead the scientists to their discovery. After the history of DNA, we took a closer look at exactly what DNA is. It is a double helix strand of nucleotides held together by hydrogen bonds. We created DNA molecules out of various cereal types. Tomorrow we will continue to learn about the structure of DNA and how it replicates itself prior to cell division.

Homework: none

Today we worked on the Karyotype lab and identified genetic disorders of fictitious insects. The lab was handed in at the end of class. When finished with the lab, students began their Timeline of the Discovery of DNA. The timeline must include the year, scientist and their contribution to the discovery of DNA. The scientists were given in class and can be found within the first section of Chapter 12.

Homework: Timeline of the Discovery of DNA (use 12.1 of your text)

Today we took the test on Chapter 11. After the test we began a lab on identifying genetic disorders by reading karyotypes. We will continue the lab next class.

Homework: none

Today we began class with an OGT practice question that dealt with reading a pedigree. We spent the majority of time reviewing for the test tomorrow and going over papers that were handed back. The test tomorrow is over Chapter 11 - complex inheritance patterns, pedigrees, karyotypes and genetic disorders.

Homework: STUDY for test tomorrow!

Today we finished notes on Chapter 11 and we will have a test over chapter 11 next Tuesday 11/13. We spent half of today researching and identifying genetic disorders. Some genetic disorders are recessive, meaning both recessive alleles are needed to have the disorder and others are dominant in which only 1 dominant allele is needed to have the disorder.

Homework: Prepare studying for test next Tuesday!!!

Today we learned how to read and create a Pedigree Chart to trace a genetic disorder through a family. At the beginning of class, we practiced responding to command questions which are typical of short response questions on the OGT test.

Homework: Pedigree Worksheet

Today we reviewed sex-linked traits and then went to the library and conducted a virtual lab.

Homework: Finish virtual lab

Today we continued to look at inheritance that does not follow Mendelian genetics. We learned about sex linked inheritance and polygenic inheritance. After notes, we completed a lab which dealt with single trait inheritance, incomplete dominance and sex linked inheritance. By flipping a coin to determine alleles, we developed a phenotype to create a creature face.

HOMEWORK: Finish Creature Face lab questions

Today we took the quiz on monohybrid and dihybrid crosses that follow Mendelian genetics. After the quiz, we began chapter 11 in which we learned that there are patterns of inheritance that do not follow Mendelian genetics of pure dominance and recessiveness. We were introduced to Incomplete dominance, Co-dominance and multiple allelic inheritance.

Homework: Blood type worksheet and Incomplete dominance worksheet

Today we reviewed Dihybrid crosses and then finished taking notes on section 10.3. After notes, we watched a video that explained why genetic diversity is so important.

Homework: Prepare for a quiz over dihybrid and monohybrid crosses

Today we worked on Dihybrid crosses - when two traits are crossed. For example, flower color and seed shape. We practiced in class and then worked on a Bikini Bottom Dihybrid worksheet.

Homework: Bikini Bottom Dihybrid Cross worksheet - due Friday

Today we worked on monohybrid crosses. We completed a lab in which we created a Marshmallow Reebop. We were given mother and father chromosomes and randomly picked chromosomes from each parent to make the offspring. We determined the genotype and phenotype of the offspring and of each parent. Next class we will work on dihybrid crosses.

Homework: Bikini Bottom Genetics Worksheet #2 - Due Thursday 11/1

Today we took the 1st quarter exam. Remember, your score on this exam will be averaged into the 2nd quarter exam that you take in January. The average of these two exams will be reported as your semester exam grade.

Homework: NONE!

We spent the day reviewing information for the quarter exam tomorrow. Remember this is an Exam. If you are absent, you must speak with Sr. Joanne about making it up.

Good Luck and study tonight!

I handed out a review guide for the quarter exam which is next Tuesday. Spend at least an hour each day this weekend studying and preparing for Tuesday.

We worked on monohybrid crosses today during class.

Homework: Correct monohybrid problems and study for exam.

Quarter Exam - Tuesday 10/30

Today we reviewed the new vocabulary from Chapter 10. More notes were taken from section 10.2. We learned about Mendel's 2 Laws: The Law of Segregation and the Law of Independent Assortment. After notes, we conducted a lab on determining probability of offspring from a cross between two heterozygous parents. We determined that a Punnett square is a reliable way to predict the possible offspring from a genetic cross.

Homework: Genetic Problem Worksheet

Reminder: Quarter 1 exam is Tuesday 10/30

Today we learned about Mendelian genetics. We were introduced to a lot of new vocabulary: homozygous, heterozygous, dominant, recessive, allele, genotype and phenotype - to list just a few.

Homework: The Simple Genetics Worksheet

Reminder: Tuesday 11/30 is your first quarter exam!

Today we compared mitosis and meiosis by completing a lab. We manipulated pipe cleaners, which represented chromosomes, during a simulated cell division.
After the lab, we began learning about Mendelian Genetics.

Binders were collected today as well as P&R Passes.

Homework: Study for 10.1 quiz which is tomorrow!

Today we reviewed meiosis and watched a video which showed meiosis occurring.

Homework: Due Tuesday 10/23 - Binder check and P&R Pass collected for 1st quarter

Quiz -Wednesday 10/24 - Chapter 10.1 - meiosis

Next week - Tuesday 10/30 - Quarter #1 Exam

Today we learned about how sex cells are formed. We learned why sex cells have to have half of the number of chromosomes that normal body cells have. There are two stages of meiosis, meiosis I and meiosis II. Two divisions are needed so that the number of chromosomes remains constant from generation to generation. We also learned that crossing over of the homologous chromosomes during prophase I increases genetic variability.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 98-100, Article #3 - Due on Monday!

Today we spent most of the class discussing stem cell research. A lot of differing opinions were discussed during class. It is a controversial topic. You had an opportunity at the end of class to write an opinion on stem cell research.

Homework: NONE!

Today we reviewed and then took the test over Chapter 9. After the test, we worked on a worksheet that discussed the factors which cause cancer and some preventative measure which can be taken to reduce the risk of cancer.

Reminder: Tomorrow is a school wide testing day - no classes!

Today was a short class due to Mass with the Bishop. We reviewed Chapter 9 - cell cycle, mitosis and control of the cell cycle. A 50 point test will be tomorrow. You should minimally know why cells have to be small, the steps of the cell cycle (interphase, mitosis, cytokinesis), the steps of mitosis (prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase) and what controls the cell cycle (cyclins and CDK). You should also know what carcinogens are and how genetics can contribute to cancer. Understand what apoptosis is and what stem cells are.

Homework: Prepare for Test Chapter 9

Today we reviewed that phases of mitosis. We watched an animated video of mitosis which described the activities of each phase. After the review, we went to the library and conducted a Virtual Lab in which we compared the tissue of normal cells to that of cancerous tissue. We learned that the cells of cancerous tissue spend more time dividing that normal tissue - this is why the tumor grows so rapidly.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 94-96

Looking ahead: Tuesday 10/16 - Test Chapter 9
Monday 10/22 - Article #3 Due
Tuesday 10/23 - Binders Due and P&R pass
Tuesday 10/30 - 1st quarter Exam!!!!!!

Today we reviewed why cells are small, the cell cycle and the phases of mitosis. We then took notes on section 9.3 - the cell cycle and cancer. We learned what happens when the cell cycle goes wrong - cancer!

Homework: NONE! - Review the phases of Mitosis - don't wait to cram!

NOTICE: Look to the right of this box to see the new access code for the online book.

Today we reviewed the three reasons cells maintain a small size. We reviewed the cell cycle: interphase, mitosis and cytokinesis. Then we learned about the activities that occur during mitosis: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase. We took a field trip to the gym where we acted out mitosis on the basketball court. Hopefully this visual representation of each phase helps you to remember what happens at each phase.

Homework: prepare 5 flash cards (one for each phase) which includes a drawing of the cell in the phase, the name of the phase and a list of activities which occur in the phase.
5 Phases: Interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase

Today we took the Chapter 8 test on photosynthesis and cellular respiration. After the test, we began Chapter 9 - Cellular Reproduction.

Homework: NONE

Today we spent the day reviewing for the Chapter 8 test which is tomorrow.

Homework: STUDY!

There was a substitute today and the classes were short due to the Pep Rally in the afternoon. A video on Cellular Respiration was seen and a viewing guide was completed. After the video a worksheet was to be completed looking at the effects of temperature and amount of sunlight on the rate of photosynthesis.

Homework: Due Monday 10/8 - Article Review #2

Reminder: Tuesday 10/9 will be the test on Chapter 8

Today we completed two worksheets which summarize the steps of photosynthesis and cellular respiration. We also conducted a lab that demonstrates how plants take up carbon dioxide from their environment.

Reminders: Article Review #2 due on Monday

Next Test: Chapter 8 next Tuesday

Homework: Due tomorrow: Science Notebook Pages 84-86

Another tough day! We watched a video reviewing energy and photosynthesis prior to the quiz. After the video we took the quiz on Photosynthesis - all did fairly well. After the quiz, we learned all about cellular respiration. We made another foldable to help us learn the three steps in cellular respiration. What is the importance of oxygen???

Homework: finish foldable and review cell resp. tonight

Tough day today --- we learned in (semi) detail the two steps of photosynthesis. We started by reviewing ATP and then learned the new information oh photosynthesis. After notes, you transferred the information to a foldable review guide to help you study. Cellular respiration is next, the other matabolic pathway!!


Homework: QUIZ tomorrow on the steps of photosynthesis. Study tonight - explain the steps to your parents.

I was out today a substitute was there in my place. Today a video on Photosynthesis was watched with a viewing guide. Handed out was a summary sheet on photosynthesis. With the help of the sheet and your book, you were to complete a study guide sheet.

Homework: Due Tuesday 10/2 - SN pages 81-83

Today we finished discussing Chapter 8.1. We learned that the energy in our bodies is in the form of ATP - adenosine triphosphate. We learned how that energy is released. We identified that the products of photosynthesis are the reactants needed for cellular respiration and the products of cellular respiration are the reactants needed for photosynthesis. Next week we will look in much more detail to the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.

Homework: Due Monday Oct 1 - Science Notebook pages 78-80

Today we took the Chapter 7 Test - most said they think they did well. You will find out tomorrow. After the test, we began taking notes on Chapter 8 - Cellular Energy!

Homework: NONE - relax!

Today was spent reviewing for the Chapter 7 test that is tomorrow (Thursday 9/27). We watched a video which reviewed the Cell Theory development and the main points of the cell theory. The video also reviewed the main organelles and their functions. After the video, we took a pre-test to help us determine how and where to focus our studies tonight. It also will contribute bonus points to your test tomorrow based on how well you did. After the pre-test, we played BINGO to help review.

Homework: Tests tomorrow on Chapter 7

Today we finished the Sad Salad Lab. After the lab, we reviewed hypotonic, hypertonic and isotonic solutions and how cells act in each solution. Tell your parents how pickles are made and the biology behind the process.

Homework: Study for test on Thursday -Chapter 7. Take time tonight to review. There may be a pre-test on Wednesday which can earn you points on your "real" test Thursday!

Today we reviewed the cell and its functions. We then continued learning about diffusion and osmosis. Two labs were conducted, one that demonstrated diffusion and the other osmosis. Tomorrow we will finish the lab on osmosis by looking at the results of the carrots soaked in either freshwater or saltwater.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 70 - 75

Today we learned the parts of the microscope and the functions of each part. Then, we "played" with some sand that was hydrophobic to demonstrate how the non-polar phospholipid tails are repelled by the watery environment inside and outside of the cell membrane. We continued learning about transport through the cell membrane via passive and active transport.

Homework: Due Monday 9/24 - Cell Model Project, Article #1

Today we reviewed the homework from Tuesday. After reviewing old material, we moved forward and began learning about transport through the cell membrane.

Homework: If done early and turned in tomorrow, 5 extra credit points will be given on the cell project.

Reminder: article review due on Monday!

Today there was a sub. A movie was watched with a viewing guide and then the viewing guide was reviewed in class. After the movie, the class worked on Anatomy of the Cell worksheet.

Homework: Due Thursday SN pages 64-69

Today we learned the proper way to carry and use a microscope. We learned how to calculate magnification as well as prepare wet slides.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 64-69 Due on Thursday

Today we learned about the Cell Theory and the plasma membrane. There are several components to the plasma membrane that contribute to its functions. We made models of plasma membranes with various food items to help us visualize the membrane.

Homework: Read Lab 5 in you lab book and complete the Pre-Lab Discussion questions on page 35.

We spent the day finishing the organic chemistry lab and it was turned in.

Homework: you can be reading your article and writing your summary or you can begin the cell model project or both:)

Today we had the test over Chapter 6. After the test, I introduced a Cell Model Project for this chapter. The instructions and rubric were handed out in class and we went over them. I showed some examples of Cell Models from previous years. The Cell Models are due on Monday Sept 24. If they are turned in on Friday Sept 21, you can earn extra credit points.

Homework: you can be working on your article review or begin your cell project

Today we conducted the Organic Molecule lab. We did not finish. My plan is to finish the lab on Friday when we are back in room 219. Tomorrow is still the BIG chemistry TEST over all of Chapter 6 - 60 pts.

Homework: STUDY!!!

Today we continued learning about macromolecules and their importance to living organisms. Tomorrow we will conduct a laboratory investigation in which we identify whether a substance is a carbohydrate, lipid, protein or nucleic acid. After the lab we will review for the test on Thursday.

Homework: Review and begin preparing for BIG Test on Chapter 6 - this Thursday!

Today we began class with an extended DiveIn question. We analyzed a scientific experiment and identified the control, independent and dependent variables. I introduced your 1st quarter project - you must read 3 scientific articles and write summaries of each this quarter. Due dates are posted on the blog. Then we broke into groups and researched various macromolecules. Each group was responsible for one type of macromolecule. Information was shared by using a white board to explain the macromolecule assigned.

Homework: Due tomorrow: SN 59-61, bring lab book tomorrow

Today we took the quiz on basic chemistry. After the quiz, we began discussing the major elements that make up living organisms and completed a quick coloring activity of the elements.
An introduction to organic molecules was given - the proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. We watched a video on macromolecules and then took a quick quiz (not for a grade) to see how much we learned today.

Homework: Have a safe weekend!

Sorry this got up late - Internet connection issues.

Today we reviewed basic chemistry, including enzyme activity!
We played a review game to help us prepare for the quiz tomorrow.

Homework: prepare for quiz on basic chemistry tomorrow 6.1, 6.2, 6.3

Today we took notes on chemical reactions and learned about enzymes. We learned that enzymes will help to speed up chemical reactions. After notes, we conducted an enzyme lab in which we looked at the effects of fresh, canned and frozen pineapple on the ability of gelatin to gel.

Homework: Complete enzyme lab if not finished during class

Welcome Back from Labor Day Weekend!

Today we continued with reviewing chemistry and ended with conducting a pH lab.

Homework: finish pH lab

Today we went over the first test. After reviewing the test, we practiced reading scientific information with a skeptical mind. Information published can often be biased and we have to learn how to recognize unbiased information. We look for evidence to support claims and for very clear information, nothing vague. At the end of class, we took a few notes on chemistry.

HOMEWORK: Science Notebook Pgs 49-52 which correspond with reading section 6.1 in the text book

Today we had a test on Chapter 1, metrics, safety and equipment. After the test, we began discussing chemistry of living things.

Homework: NONE!! Don't forget about extra credit paper towels by next Friday.

Today several papers were returned and we spent the class reviewing the concepts in Chapter 1, safety, equipment and metric conversions. Tomorrow is a 50 pt test on what we reviewed today (concepts in Chapter 1, safety, equipment and metric conversions). I showed you how to go online and take practice tests and how to use the interactive tutorial. It is only to your benefit to take advantage and utilize these features. The study guide on page 24 of your book is a nice summary of the chapter.

Homework: STUDY!!! - 50 point test on Thursday

Short class today due to Mass. We reviewed how to convert pounds to kilograms and inches to centimeters. We went over the safety guidelines for laboratory performance and then we identified laboratory equipment and the uses of the equipment.

Homework: parent signed safety guideline form, equipment lab (if not done in class), study - there will be a test on Thursday over Chapter 1, safety and lab equipment

Today we reviewed the metric system and worked on a review sheet dealing with metirc conversions. After revieweing metrics, we reviewed safety and completed Lab 1 on safety.

Homework: Due - Tuesday 8/28 - metric reivew sheet, safety lab (if not done in class)

Today we reviewed the 8 characteristics of life and did an activity/lab that reviewed the 8 characteristics.

Homework: Due Mon 8/27 - Create a creature - diagram neatly and then explain how the creature you created displays the 8 characteristics of life

Today we learned more about the nature of science and how to distinguish between science and pseudoscience. We reviewed the scientific method and were able to identify it in action through a few readings of actual scientific experiments.

Homework: Due Friday 8/24 - Read section 1.1 and complete SN pgs1-4

WELCOME TO THE 2007-2008 SCHOOL YEAR!!!

Today we spent most of our time discussing what Descriptive Biology is all about and the expectations I have of you. Remember, this class counts double this semester - so make it a good one. We were able to talk alittle about what science is and is not (pseudoscience).

HOMEWORK: cover book, SN 5-7

Last day of class! We spent the time reviewing for the final.

Study hard and have a nice, safe summer.

Today we dissected a vertebrate in contrast to the invertebrates we have been looking at. The vertebrate we dissected was a frog. We identified external as well as internal features. We learned that the intestines of a bull frog is very long (and fragile after being preserved).

Homework: Finish Frog Lab and the two review worksheets to help prepare for final

Today we took the quiz over classification. We finished the squid lab and conducted the starfish lab. Next class we will dissect a frog and compare the invertebrates we have studied to the vertebrates.

Homework: Due Thursday 5/31 - Starfish Lab - if not complete and notebook

You should be preparing for your final - tonight look at the short answer questions.

Today we distinguished between the mollusks and the echinoderms. We dissected a squid today and identified internal as well as external features.

Homework: Due Tuesday 5/29 - Squid Lab, Phylum Pamphlet, and prepare for a quiz.

Today we distinguished between the three groups of Arthropods. In class we looked at the external features of a grasshopper and a crayfish and compared similarities and differences.

Homework: Due Thursday 5/24 - Venn Diagram comparing Arthropods, Insects, Crustaceans and Arachnids.

BLUE DAY
There was a test today on the Reproductive System. We finally finished viewing the end of Miracle of Life. After the test, we began discussing classification of organisms.

Homework: Due Friday 5/18 - Classification worksheet

BLUE DAY
Today we finished Chapter 38 - Reproduction and Development. We learned about the stages of the development of a fetus and the stages of child birth. We continued viewing Miracle of Life and will continue seeing it on Wednesday prior to the test.

Homework: Wednesday - Test over Chapter 38

BLUE DAY
We continued learning about the reproductive organs of the male and female. After notes, we watched Part I of Miracle of Life.

Homework: Due Monday 5/14 - Female Menstrual Cycle Lab

BLUE DAY
We only met for a few minutes today and then we attended an excellent speaker on adolescent sexuality. I did have enough time to assign homework: RE 38.1

Homework: Due Thursday 5/10 - RE 38.1

BLUE DAY
Today we took the test on Chapter 37 and then began studying the reproductive system.

Homework: Due Tuesday 5/8 - Reproduction Packet

BLUE DAY
Today we finished learning about the excretory system. We then watched a video reviewing the circulatory system and blood. For the last part of class, we played a review game to help us prepare for the BIG Chapter 37 test on Friday.

Homework: BIG Test on Friday - Chapter 37

BLUE DAY
Toady we took a quiz over the Circulatory system. After the quiz, we began studying the excretory system. There will be a major test over Chapter 37 this Friday 5/4.

Homework: Due Wednesday 5/2 - RE 37.3 and urinary system worksheet

REMINDER - Big TEST this Friday on all of Chapter 37!

BLUE DAY
Today we reviewed the homework and spent the class learning how blood flows through the heart. We completed a lab in which we traced the blood flow through the heart. We also used the SMART Board to interactively show how blood moves through the heart.

Homework: Study for a quiz on the Circulatory System - Monday 4/30

BLUE DAY
Today we reviewed blood components and then began learning about how blood travels through the body. We focused on the type of blood vessels found in our bodies, the anatomy of the heart and blood pressure. After notes, we listened to a song by Dr. Art about blood flow. Finally, we used stethoscopes and listened to our heart valves open and close = lub dub = heart beat.

Homework: Due Thursday 4/26 - 2 worksheets on heart anatomy and blood flow

BLUE DAY
Today we took a quiz over respiration. After the quiz, we reviewed Blood Types and distinguished between antigens and antibodies. After discussing blood types we conducted a blood type lab where we identified unknown blood types based on clotting of the blood with known antibodies.
Homework: Due Tuesday 4/24 - Lab book pages 95-98 - Identifying Blood Diseases

BLUE DAY
Today we reviewed respiration in preparation for a quiz on Friday. The quiz Friday will be over Chapter 37.1 - Respiration. After review, we began the circulatory system. We learned about the components of blood and what actually determines blood type.

Homework: Friday 4/20 - Quiz - Respiration

BLUE DAY
Today we reviewed and continued on with the Respiratory System. After notes, we performed a lab to determine our breathing rate and the tidal volume of our lungs. There will be a quiz on Friday on the respiratory system.
Homework: Due Wednesday 4/18 - RE 37.1 and finish lab
Quiz: Friday 4/20

BLUE DAY
Today we finished the nervous system with a quiz. After the quiz, we did an overview of Chapter 37 - Respiration, Circulation and Excretion. We began taking notes on the Respiratory system and identified the parts of the respiratory system on a diagram.

NO Homework!! Have a Blessed Easter!

BLUE DAY
Today we reviewed the last quiz. Because of poor performance of so many, we will re-quiz on the information. After going over the quiz, we reviewed the eye and ear and briefly discussed the effects of drugs on the nervous system. The quiz next Tuesday will be over the old material (you have the old quiz to study from) and the information on the eye, ear and drugs. There will be a diagram of an eye and an ear to identify parts on. Also, you should know the functions of the parts of the eye and ear. The quiz will be 25 points so questions will be general in nature.
Homework: STUDY for quiz on Tuesday 4/3

BLUE DAY
Today we took a quiz over the nervous system and then we dissected sheep eyes.

Homework: Due - Friday 3/30: Complete eye lab - remember, we skipped section "B"

BLUE DAY
Today we reviewed the nervous system to help prepare us for a quiz on Wednesday. It will be a BIG quiz 25-30 points (perhaps you may think of it as a small test). After reviewing, we began learning about different sense organs. Today we covered the eye and the ear. Next class we will be dissecting a sheep eye.
Homework: STUDY for quiz/test on Wednesday 3/28!!

BLUE DAY
Today we learned about the parts of the brain and what parts control what functions in our bodies. We also learned about how a reflex works. For the latter part of the class, we worked on a lab.
Homework: Due Monday 3/26 - Lab page 123

BLUE DAY
Today we began class with a 2-Pointer. How does an impulse travel down a neuron? How are charges dispersed along a neuron at rest?
We reviewed notes from last class and then did a Reaction Lab to determine whether or not being distracted reduces reaction time.
After the lab, we began looking at the anatomy of the brain.
Homework: Due Thursday 3/22 - The Central Nervous System worksheet which looks at the anatomy of the brain

BLUE DAY
Today we practiced our last OGT question, this afternoon is the OGT - science part. Take your time, read carefully and you should all do fine!
After the practice question, we took more notes on the nervous system. Specifically we learned how an impulse travels down a neuron - a wave of depolarization.
Homework: Due Tuesday 3/20 - notebooks, P&R pass and study your notes for a 2 pointer!!

BLUE DAY
Today we reviewed the endocrine system prior to the quiz and then took the quiz. After the quiz, we reviewed more OGT questions. The science part of the OGT is next Thursday so we have one more day to practice with some questions. After the OGT questions, we began taking notes on the Nervous System, Chapter 36. Because of the OGT schedule, we will not be meeting on Tuesday, the next time we meet will be next Thursday.
Homework: Due Thursday 3/15 - Reading Essential 36.1

BLUE DAY
Today we began with another set of OGT practice questions. We reviewed the endocrine glands and their functions. We took notes on how the endocrine system regulates human growth hormone and water level content in our bodies through negative feedback loops. Also, we discussed the role of the thyroid gland and the importance of having iodine in our diets to prevent goiter. Finally, we learned that the pituitary gland is the MASTER gland!

Homework: Study for a quiz on the endocrine system - Friday 3/9

BLUE DAY
Today we took the quiz on Digestion and Nutrition. After the quiz, we looked at a few more OGT questions - today they centered around Physical Science. Again, go to the ODE web site to get more information on the test and for practice questions. After the OGT questions, we moved on and began the endocrine system. We took notes and labeled the glands.
Homework: Due Wednesday 3/7 - Reading Essential 35.3 and complete the endocrine gland worksheet identifying functions of the glands. Remember, use your text book, reading essentials book and internet if needed to complete the functions column of the worksheet.

BLUE DAY
Today we began with an OGT practice set of questions. To help prepare yourself more, go to the ODE Website - I have the link provided on this page. Take the practice OGT test to find out what areas you need to review prior to taking the official OGT test.

We reviewed the digestive system and nutrition.

Quiz next class - Monday 3/5 - digestion and nutrition

BLUE DAY
Today we watched a video on the digestive system and followed some blueberries down a person's esophagus into their stomach. We also did a lab comparing digestive tract lengths between herbivores and carnivores. Next blue day is the Sophomore retreat so we lose a day together therefore, there is more homework than usual but they have until next Thursday to complete it all.

Homework: Due Thursday 3/1
1. Finish lab if not turned in during class.
2. Reading Essentials 35.2
3. Nutritional Label worksheet
4. Nutrient chart:
Six nutrients: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals, vitamins, water
Information: source, what they breakdown into, function of in our bodies

Short class today because of Ash Wednesday Mass. Today we talked about digestion and tried to taste the sugar present after digestion of starch. We learned that amylase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down carbohydrates in the mouth. We also worked on identifying digestive system organs.

Homework: Digestion Flip Book worth 35 points - Due Friday 2/23

Friday Feb. 16, 2007

Homework Due 2/21 - Digestion worksheet