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.