Today we learned about radiometric dating. Radiometric dating is different from relative dating because one can actually determining the exact age of a rock layer using radiometric dating. At the end of class, we started watching "How the Earth Was Formed"

NO homework!

For the Dive In today, we practiced a short response OGT question. I will score them so that we can review them and learn how to improve our short answer responses. Today we learned about fossils. We learned how they form and the different types. We also learned how to use relative dating to determine the age of fossils.

Homework: worksheet on relative dating

Today you took the Chapter 13 test. From here on out, we will be on the "macro" level. We will no longer be looking at the cell and the happenings in the cell. We will be studying fossils and how the Earth formed next.

Homework: Complete worksheet on section 14.1

Today we identified a criminal in a forensics science investigation. Arrest Warrants were issued and the criminals sent to prison. DNA fingerprinting was the method of identifying the criminals. After arresting the criminals, we reviewed for the next test which is tomorrow.

STUDY for Chapter 13 test tomorrow!

Today we watched a video called "Clone Age". After watching the video, the assignment was to create a public service announcement either for or against cloning. Use the information provided in the video to support your argument.

Homework: Clone Age Response

Next Tuesday is Chapter 13 Test

Today we finished chapter 13. We learned about DNA fingerprinting and gene therapy.

There will be a test next Tuesday!

NO homework

Today we spent the day studying genetic engineering and the associated vocabulary. We also took some time to look at the pros and cons of genetically engineering the food crops we grow.

Homework: Genetic Technology puzzles (double sided)

Today we learned about genetic engineering. We learned how geneticists take DNA from one organism and insert it into another organism for a desired result.

Homework: study the genetic engineering technique and the vocabulary

Today we began learning about genetic engineering. The simplest form of "genetic engineering" is through selective breeding and inbreeding. A test cross is used to determine the unknown genotype of an individual. At the end of class we continued watching the video started on Friday.

Homework: Chapter 13.1 Assessment Questions 1-6

Today there was a substitute. Chapter 12 test was taken and then a movie was watched.

Today we wrapped up Chapter 12 by extracting DNA from strawberries. We were able to actually see something that is microscopic when in its individual form.

We spent a few minutes reviewing for the test which is tomorrow.
I have posted the review guide on the blog to right.

Homework: STUDY!

We spent the day finishing Chapter 12. We learned about different mutations and how some can be more damaging than others. Tomorrow we will actually view DNA - the genetic information stored in the nucleus of strawberries. We will then review for a test which will be on Friday.

Homework: finish crossword puzzle and vocabulary review worksheet

Begin studying for test which is on Friday!

We spent today working on DNA replication, transcription to mRNA and translation to an amino acid sequence.

Homework: complete Breaking the Code worksheet from class - due tomorrow

We spent the day practicing protein synthesis. We worked with board magnets which illustrated how protein synthesis occurs. We were able to manipulate the DNA, mRNA and tRNA to show the process.

Homework: complete protein synthesis booklet and explain protein synthesis to parents - have them sign the homework sheet indicating you explained protein synthesis to them!!

Monday 11/24
We made DNA molecules out of marshmallows, honeycombs and gummi bears. We spent the day learning about DNA structures and how it differs from RNA.

Homework: finish DNA and RNA worksheet


Tuesday 11/25
We learned how the cell makes protein today. Through the processes of transcription and translation and with the help of DNA, mRNA, tRNA and rRNA - protein is made! We watched an animated video demonstrating these processes.

NO homework! Happy Thanksgiving!

We started a little late today due to the snow. Once class started, we reviewed the last test. We started learning about the structure of DNA.

Homework: worksheet on DNA structure (exclude the last 3 questions)

Today we watched a video which discussed the DNA revolution. We learned the many uses there are to understanding DNA. Over time, more and more information is being learned about DNA. We also read about the scientists that were important in the development of understanding DNA.

Homework: finish Reading Guide 12.1

Today we reviewed and then took the test on Chapter 11. After the test, we worked on finishing the Karyotype lab from yesterday.

Homework: finish karyotype lab! - to be turned in tomorrow

Today we worked on a karyotype lab. We learned how to match chromosomes and identify genetic disorders. I handed out a review sheet for Chapter 11 test which is tomorrow!

Homework: prepare for test, you can finish lab after the test tomorrow

Today we reviewed Chapter 11 review sheet. We learned about karyotypes and how to read them to identify nondisjuction. Either monosomy or trisomy will occur due to nondisjuction. We learned about fetal testing and the threats to the fetus for each.

Homework: None - Test on Wednesday- Chapter 11!

Today we took a quiz over complex inheritance. Before the quiz, we reviewed. Next week, there will be a test over Chapter 11.

Homework: Chapter 11 review worksheet

Today we studied recessive and dominant disorders. We went to the library and searched for genetic disorders which matched given symptoms on a worksheet. We also practiced multiple allele inheritance and identified parents of children based on blood type analysis.

Homework: finish pedigree chart from yesterday

Reminder: Complex patterns of inheritance quiz tomorrow

Today we learned about pedigree charts. We learned how to trace a trait through generations. We also learned that we can predict the genotype of an individual by analyzing a pedigree chart.

Homework: construct a pedigree worksheet

Today we conducted a virtual lab crossing fruit flies and determining F1 and F2 generations.

Homework: finish human genetics survey (skip question #3), finish virtual lab

Today we continued learning about complex patterns of heredity. We learned about sex-linked traits and polygenic inheritance.

Homework: I asked you survey family members for specific traits. Please conduct the survey, try to identify their genotypes and then we will look at your data next week.

Finish flip-guide to complex patterns of heredity that we started in class today.

Today we took the quiz on Mendelian genetics. After the quiz, we began learning about complex patterns of inheritance: co-dominance, incomplete dominance, and multiple alleles.

Homework: career assignment

Today we spent much of class preparing for a quiz which is tomorrow. The quiz will cover the the basics of meiosis, monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.

Homework: quiz Thursday
Friday career homework due!

Today we spent the day working on dihybrid crosses!

Homework: set-up a Punnett square and determine the phenotypes of the offspring from a cross between BbHh X BbHh (B=blue, b=green; H=hair, h=bald)

Last class there was a substitute. The class created Dragons through monohybrid crosses.

Today we reviewed homework that was due. We continued to work on monohybrid crosses. We also saw a short video on careers in the field of science in honor of career week at NDCL.

Homework: Due Friday: Use the list from page xix - "In the Field": choose your top three favorite careers from the list, read about them and create a list of skills and knowledge needed for such a career. Additionally, indicate why you feel this career may suit you.

Today we practiced monohybrid crosses. We created marshmallow reebops by crossing two parents. We had to determine their genotypes and their phenotypes. Once we know the genotypes and phenotypes, we were able to create them with marshmallows.

Homework: crossword

Today was the 1st quarter exam.

No Homework!

I returned the meiosis quizzes today. Several were below what is acceptable so you had time to self correct them in class today. After the corrections were made, we moved onto Mendel and his genetics. We reviewed vocabulary and learned a few new terms. Material on the exam will be through the information we covered today. We spent a few minutes at the end of class reviewing cell structure and function(for the quarter exam) through a jeopardy game.

Homework: monohybrid cross worksheet 1-4

Today we practiced putting the phases of meiosis in order and then we took a quiz over meiosis. After the quiz, I handed out a study guide for the semester exam which is next Wednesday. Your homework assignment will help you prepare for the exam. We also began studying heredity and learning about some of the earliest studies Mendel conducted.

Homework: All On-line: *use the interactive tutor for Chapter 1 and Chapter 6
*take the Chapter 1 and Chapter 6 Tests and email results (over 85%)
denice.teeples@ndcl.org

Also: Using a Punnett square, determine the offspring of a cross between two second generation yellow pea plants: Yy x Yy (try to prove that 3 yellow will be produced and 1 green)

Today we reviewed meiosis. You took a "pointless quiz" over meiosis. Take the results from the pointless quiz and study tonight for a true quiz tomorrow!

Homework: prepare for meiosis quiz

Today we compared mitosis and meiosis by performing a lab exercise.

Homework: review meiosis

1st quarter Exam - next Wednesday 10/29

Today we learned about Meiosis - the process by which sex cells are made. A very important process which keeps the number of chromosomes consistent between parents and offspring. We watched a video which explained meiosis with the use of animation of the chromosomes.

Binders were collected

Next week will be the quarter exam! (either wed or thurs - we will decide tomorrow)

No homework!

Today we took the test over cellular reproduction. After the test, we saw a short video that explained more about stem cell research and the pros and cons of stem cell research.

Homework: stem cell response questions, binders

Today we reviewed for the test on Monday. We reviewed vocabulary by drawing pictures of the vocabulary words and also writing definitions of the terms. For a few minutes we attempted to play Pictionary with the vocabulary words.

Homework: Monday - Test Chapter 9
Tuesday - binders due

Today we went to the library and conducted a virtual lab which compared cancerous tissue to normal tissue.

Homework: finish virtual lab, cancer worksheet

Today we reviewed the cell cycle. We went over the activities at each phase. We also learned what controls the cell cycle and what happens when something goes wrong - cancer. We learned how valuable stem cells can be since they are undifferentiated and can become any type of cell under the right conditions.

Homework: Cell Cycle Flashcards - due Thursday!

Today we learned about the cell cycle: interphase, mitosis, cytokinesis

We learned what happens in each phase of the cell cycle.

We also learned that mitosis is broken down into phases: prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase. We learned about what happens in each phase of mitosis.

Homework: cell cycle review sheet

Today we reviewed the Chapter 8 test. After the test review, we took notes on cell size. For the last half of class, we conducted a small lab that showed how as cell size increases, the volume becomes larger than surface area - which is not good for cell transport and communication.

Homework: Read Chapter 9.1, Due Chapter 9.1 assessment questions 1-4.

Today we took the Chapter 8 test. After the test, we discussed why cells are so small.

No Homework!

Today we learned about fermentation - anaerobic respiration. When our cells don't have enough oxygen to go through cellular respiration, they go into a process called lactic acid fermentation. Only 2 ATP are formed per glucose molecule therefore, it is not a very efficient source of energy production. We spent the rest of class reviewing for the test tomorrow. Test Chapter 8 - Cellular Energy.

Homework: STUDY! Use the cut and match worksheet I gave you to study with.

Today we reviewed photosynthesis and cellular respiration. We discovered that the products of one reaction are the reactants of the other. They are almost opposite reactions. Photosynthesis makes food with solar energy, cellular respiration breaks down food for energy. We also finished the photosynthesis lab.

Homework: complete the cellular respiration summary sheet and the comparison table between photosynthesis and cellular respiration

Reminder: Test on Wednesday!!!!!!!!!!

Today we took the quiz over photosynthesis with the help of our photosynthesis booklet. We learned about cellular respiration and the three steps involved in respiration. We learned that for 1 glucose molecule we consume, about 36 ATP molecules of energy are produced for our bodies.

Homework: create a tri-fold booklet demonstrating the stages of cellular respiration.

Today we learned about photosynthesis in great detail. We learned that there are two phases to photosynthesis: the light and dark reactions. We identified what happens in each phase and what the inputs and outputs are in each phase. We also viewed a video about photosynthesis. After the video, we started creating a "book" which tells the story of photosynthesis.

Homework: finish Photosynthesis Book - may be used on quiz tomorrow!

Today we reviewed the Chapter 7 Test. After reviewing the test, we learned how ATP provides energy for our cells. The ATP/ADP cycle. We then moved onto Photosynthesis - the basic workings of the process.

Homework: Photosynthesis worksheet

Today we took the Chapter 7 Test - Cellular structure and function. We are moving into Cellular Energy. How does the cell acquire its energy needs and what does it need energy for anyway? We distinguished between autotrophs and heterotrophs - a flashback from integrated science. Another flashback: The Law of Conservation of Energy!

No homework! Extra Credit deadline: Friday 10/3

Today we spent half the class looking at the analogies everyone came up with for their projects. Nice Job! We also reviewed for the test which is on Monday. A study guide for Chap 7 was given out so that you can focus your studies.

Have a good weekend! - Study!

Today we finished the diffusion lab and took notes on active transport. In class we began working on a cellular membrane packet of review.

Homework: Plasma membrane packet, concept map worksheet

MONDAY - Test over Chapter 7

Today we finished the Gummi Bear Osmosis lab and began set-up for another osmosis demonstration.

Next Monday, 9/29, there will be a test over Chapter 7

Today we continued with the Gummi Bear Osmosis lab. After the lab, we took more notes on osmosis and diffusion. We learned what happens to cells when they are placed in isotonic, hypotonic and hypertonic solutions. At the end of class, we watched a short video on osmosis and diffusion.

Homework: Cell Analogies project due tomorrow!!!

EXTRA CREDIT - Deadline next Friday 10/3

Today we finished making the cell membrane models. After construction, we took notes on diffusion and osmosis. At the end of class, we set-up a Gummi Bear Osmosis Lab.

Homework: Work on Cell Analogies Project!

Today we made models of the plasma membrane using various materials to represent the phospholipid heads, phospholipid tails, cholesterol, carbohydrates and transport proteins.

Homework: How Cells Operate worksheet - Due Monday 9/22

Cell Analogies Project - Due Wednesday 9/24

Today we:
*took notes on the plasma membrane
*watched a video - Mystery Through the Lens - about the use of microscopes to solve forensic cases

Homework: Bring book tomorrow! Due Friday Section 7.2 Assessment Questions 1-4 Pg.190

Today we finished the microscope lab. I introduced the Cell Analogies Project. We took notes on the Cell Theory.

Homework: NONE!

Today we learned more about the microscope and how it works. We conducted a microscope lab and learned how to make wet mounts and use the microscope properly. We will finish up the lab tomorrow.

Homework: Read section 7.1 and answer questions 1-4 on page 186 (Section 7.1 Assessment)

Today we took the test over Chapter 6. After the test, we worked on identifying microscope parts and determining functions.

Homework: Microscope worksheet

Today we finished the Organic Chemistry lab. After the lab, we reviewed for the test tomorrow. The test is 75 points so STUDY. You have your last quiz to study and the Chapter 6 Review guide. Also, you have your notes, the book, the text book website and other handouts to study.

STUDY FOR TEST! Test tomorrow!

Today we went over the chemistry quiz from yesterday. After going over the quiz, we conducted a lab. We learned how to test substances to determine if they are composed of protein, lipid, or carbohydrates.

Homework: bring goggles again so that we can test an unknown substance, begin analysis questions from the lab

Today we took the Chemistry quiz. After the Chemistry quiz, we had presentations on the four macromolecules of life.

Homework: NONE - But bring goggles tomorrow!!!

Today we reviewed section 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 for a quiz we are having tomorrow. The quiz is 30 points. After review, we broke into smaller groups and researched macromolecules. Today white board presentations were generated and will be shared with the class after the quiz tomorrow.

Homework: Study!!!

Update for: Thursday 9/4

Today we reviewed the functions of enzymes. We saw a video which introduced the most important elements to living things and the molecules they come together to form. We spent part of the class identifying the elements essential for life and what percent of living organisms they make up.

Homework: Chapter 6 Chemistry Review Sheet: 6.1, 6.2, 6.3 (not 6.4 yet)

Reminder: Quiz on Tuesday 9/9 - basic chemistry

Today we learned about activation energy and the role enzymes play in chemical reactions. Enzymes are biological catalysts which help to speed up the rate of chemical reactions. We went to the library today and conducted a virtual lab on the lap top computers. The lab compared the concentration of substrate and pH on enzyme reaction rates.

Homework: Analysis questions from the virtual enzyme lab.

Today we continued to review chemistry. We reviewed covalent and ionic bonding. We also distinguished between endothermic and exothermic reactions. We also reviewed The Law of Conservation of Matter - balancing equations. We explored the pH of various household items and reviewed the pH scale.

Homework: Page 155: 1, 3, 4
Page 165: 1, 3, 4

Today we reviewed the test from yesterday. After the test review, we reviewed atoms and how they bond. We reviewed how to obtain information about an atom just by looking at the periodic table.

Homework: NONE

Today we took the Chapter 1 Test. After the test, we began our unit on chemistry. We reviewed that the basic unit of all matter is the atom. We then reviewed the subatomic particles found in the atom.

Homework: counting atoms worksheet

Today we reviewed for the test tomorrow! It will be over: Nature of Science, Scientific Methods, metrics, equipment, safety, eight characteristics of life.

TEST - tomorrow!!

Today we reviewed lab safety and equipment. We were able to look and handle lab equipment and determine their use.

Homework: complete the lab safety cartoon

Reminder: Test on Thursday 8/28 - nature of science, scientific method, characteristics of life, metrics, lab equipment and safety

Today we reviewed the 8 characteristics of life. We also reviewed the metric system and how to convert between units of the metric system. I also demonstrated some of the features found at the textbook website.

Homework: Metric Mania worksheet from class, metric worksheet for homework

Today we completed a lab in which we learned about the 8 characteristics of life. All living organisms exhibit these 8 characteristics.

Homework: Create a living organism and explain all 8 characteristics as to why it is alive. Remember to be creative!

Today we finished reviewing the Scientific Method and the variables involved in setting up experiments. We went outside to complete a scavenger hunt which served to review a bit from last year and introduce ideas of this year.

NO Homework!

WELCOME BACK!!

Today we spent a lot of time going over classroom business. Remember, all papers passed out today I expect you will keep organized in your binder. We were able to begin talking about the Nature of Science and Scientific Methods.

Homework: Lab Rules - parent signature sheet, Read chapter 1.1 - answer questions 1-4 page 10. DUE TOMORROW!!

Today we spent time reviewing for the final exam.

Have a safe summer!

Today we spent the day moving through stations around the room. At each station, you reviewed a major concept that will be on the final exam. There will be several diagrams on the exam so make sure you study the diagrams for each body system and the animals we dissected.

Homework: study for the exam!!!

Today we examined a vertebrate organism - the frog. We learned a little about amphibians and then dissected a frog. We identified external as well as internal features of the frog.

Homework: binder check, P&R Pass, begin studying for the final exam!

Today we took the quiz over plants. After the quiz, we learned about the phylum mollusca. We dissected a squid today and identified the parts that classify it as a mollusc.

Homework: finish the lab

A very busy day today, we surveyed the entire animal kingdom and then focused on the Phylum Arthropoda. The specimens we examined that belong to the arthropoda phylum were an arachnid, an insect and a crustacean. They all have jointed appendages, segmented bodies and a hard exoskeleton.

Homework: study for a plant quiz!!

Today we learned more about plants. We finished with notes and then worked on several worksheets to practice the vocabulary and our knowledge.

Homework: finish worksheets and review them

Today we took the quiz over the Protista and Fungi Kingdoms. After the quiz, we started learning about plants.

Homework: Plant worksheet and coloring

Today we learned about FUNGUS! We took notes and watched a video.

Homework: Study for a protista and fungi quiz - next class

Today we took a quiz over classification and kingdoms. We finished the Virus video and turned in the homework identifying bacterial and viral diseases. We went on to learn about the Kingdom Protista. We saw video of Paramecium feeding and amoeba moving.

Homework: create 3 flashcards - archaebacteria, eubacteria, protista
the flascards should include pictures, and information on each kingdom

Today we reviewed classification and the 6 kingdoms. After the review, we moved on to learn about bacteria and viruses. We watched the video Virus!

Homework: Bacterial and Viral Diseases, pop quiz over classification and 6 kingdoms

Today we took the test over reproduction. After the test, we learned about classification and taxonomy.

Homework: Classification worksheet - if not turned in AND Kingdom worksheet

Today we finished learning about child birth, development and aging. We reviewed for the later part of the class. Next class there is a test on Chapter 36.

Homework: Prepare for test!

Today we continued to learn about the female menstrual cycle. We began understanding how the placenta develops along with the embryo.

Homework: Quick Check Worksheet - to be collected for correctness, not just completion!

Today we finished watching Miracle of Life and learned about fertilization and the female menstrual cycle.

Homework: SN page 368

Today we learned about the functions of the female and male reproductive organs. After notes, we watched half of "Miracle of Life". Next class we will continue to learn about the reproductive system and finish watching the video.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 366 and 367 - omit the "create" section

Today we took the test over the Digestive and Endocrine Systems. After the test, we began to learn about the reproductive system.

Homework: Bring book - covered! Also, finish reproductive worksheet if not turned in during class.

Today we finished the endocrine system. We reviewed the glands and hormones which make up the endocrine system and the function they each have. After notes, we watched a video which reviewed some of the major hormones and their functions.

Homework: Study for a test of the digestive and endocrine systems.

Today we reviewed the digestive system. We watched a video which showed how food travels through the system. At the end of class, we began learning about the endocrine system. We identified the glands which make up the endocrine system.

Homework: NONE

Today we took the test over the Respiratory and Excretory Systems. We began the digestive system. By using pieces of yarn, we were able to see how long the various parts of the digestive system are. The small intestine is actually about 7 meters long! We started work on a Digestive System Booklet. This booklet will contain all the information I want you to know about the Digestive System.

Homework: Digestive System Booklet - Due Friday 4/11

Today we finished the excretory system and then reviewed both the respiratory and excretory systems. Next class there will be a small test over the respiratory and excretory systems.

Homework: Study!

Today we watched a video which reviewed the respiratory system and then we began learning about the excretory system. We learned that the nephron is the filtering unit of the kidney. Each kidney contains 1 million nephron which filter wastes from our blood.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 352-354 ALL parts and the Section 3 Quick Check worksheet on excretion

Today we learned about the Respiratory System. We learned about external and internal respiration. We learned that oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange occurs at the alveoli in the lungs.

Homework: finish lab started in class, Section review - respiratory system worksheet

Today we reviewed the circulatory system before the quiz. We also watched a circulatory system video prior to the quiz. After the quiz, we turned in binders and P&R passes.

Have a Nice Break!

NO Homework!

Today we reviewed the flow of blood through the heart and the heart anatomy. We finished taking notes on the first section of this chapter - the circulatory system. Next class we will have a quiz over this first section. After break we will continue with the chapter - respiration and excretion.

Homework: Prepare for quiz over Circulatory System.

Today we began Chapter 34. We learned about the mammalian heart and how blood flows through the heart, body and lungs.

Homework: finish lab - due Monday 3/17

Today we took the test over Chapter 33 - the Nervous system. After the test, we looked at OGT short answer questions and talked about the characteristics of a complete short answer response. We went to the ODE website and looked at some good and some bad short answer responses.

Today we reviewed what we have learned up to this point on the Nervous System. The only new material introduced today was the information on the ear. Next class there is a test over Chapter 33 (not including the last section on drugs).

Homework: Prepare for Chapter 33 test

Today we dissected a sheep eye. We observed the various parts of the eye - the pupil, iris, lens, schlera, vitreous humor, etc... All went well.

Note: next Thursday will be a test over Chapter 33 - The Nervous System

Homework: Finish eye lab - Due Tuesday

Today we studied the central nervous system and the main parts of the brain. We also identified the parts of the eye. Next class, we will be dissecting a sheep eye to get a first hand look at the different parts of the eye.

Homework: CNS packet

Today we continued Chapter 33 and learning about the nervous system. We learned that the nervous system is divided into the central and peripheral nervous systems. The peripheral nervous system is then even subdivided further. We also studied the reflex arc.

Homework: Reflex Arc worksheet

Today we continued learning about the nervous system. We spent time learning how an impulse moves along a neuron, how it transfers between neurons and how a relfex works. At the end of class, we tested reaction time.

Homework: SN page 334

Today we took the test over Chapter 32. After the test, we began Chapter 33.

Homework: SN 332-333

Today we finished Chapter 32. We also learned how we can reduce the risk factors of developing osteoporosis. We spent most of the class reviewing for the test next class.

Homework: Study for Chapter 32 Test.

Today we took a quiz on the skeletal and skin diagrams. After the quiz, we practiced some OGT problems - OGT test coming up in March!! We then took notes on the muscular system. We distinguished between slow and fast twitch muscle. We also learned the difference between skeletal, cardiac and smooth muscle.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 328-330

Note: Next Wednseday there will be a test over Chapter 32

We took notes on the skeletal system and identified the major bones in the body. We began a Skeletal lab at the end of class which should be finished for homework.

Homework: finish skeletal lab, prepare for Quiz - skin and skeletal diagrams only

Today we finished taking skin notes and then did a lab in which we looked at our fingerprints.

Homework: Science Notebook Pages 325-327

Today we finished up Chapter 16 with a quiz. We are moving into the Human Body unit. We began taking notes today on Chapter 32.

Homework: Skin worksheet - coloring and questions

BLUE DAY

Today we watched videos from the PBS website on "Becoming Human". You can access these from home if you wish to review them. After the video, we looked at a lab which compared amino acid sequences of humans and other primates. We were able to identify which primates we are most closely related to.
We finished Chapter 16 - much abbreviated from the book. We will have a 20 point quiz on Monday over the notes I gave and the videos we watched.

Homework: prepare for quiz on Monday

Today we took notes on Chapter 16 - Primate and Human Ancestry. We learned that we DID NOT evolve from monkeys or apes but share a common ancestor dating millions of years in the past.

Homework: Complete Primate Lab we began in class

Today was the last day of 1st semester - the last day of having class every day - 2nd semester we switch to class just on Blue days! We spent today preparing for the semester exam!

Homework: PREPARE FOR EXAM

Today we watched a video which reviewed the history of life on Earth as well as evolution. After the video, we took an open book quiz - the last grade of the quarter.

Homework: Prepare for exam which is next Wednesday!!!

Today we finished notes on Chapter 15 and reviewed some of the vocabulary. We went over the worksheet from yesterday as well.

NO homework- prepare for exam next week!

Today we continued to learn about natural selection and evolution. We learned how often natural selection makes a population favor one or more forms of a trait - stabilizing, directional or disruptive selection. We continued to take notes on 15.3.

Homework: Finish natural selection worksheet started in class, binders due tomorrow!

Today we reviewed the homework that was due. After reviewing the homework, you worked in groups to complete the worksheets from the video we watched yesterday. The later half of the block, we conducted a lab which demonstrated how organisms which are better suited to their environment have a better chance of survival and reproducing more organisms.

Homework: Natural selection worksheet - double sided

Happy New Year!

Today we reviewed the evidence for evolution and watched a video which reinforced what we learned during notes.

Homework: Due tomorrow: Worksheet 15.2 - double sided