Wednesday, May 25, 2011

DNA quiz, dissection wrap up

Today in biology, we had a quiz over DNA structure and replication. I also gave students their current grade print outs and handed back the Punnett squares quiz. Get these things from your period's returned work drawer. Also, we continued to work on the DNA essays.

For homework, finish your Fijian draft of your DNA essay, due Thurs.

In AP bio, students worked on their dissection post-lab questions.

For homework, finish them!

Monday, May 23, 2011

Frog Dissection, Candy DNA Models

Today in AP biology, we started the frog dissection.

In regular bio, we completed the Candy DNA model (in 4th, 5th, and 6th periods.)  The other periods we did it on Friday.  In 2nd and 8th we worked on the DNA Structure and Function Essay (described at the bottom of NB p. 155.)

For homework, finish your first draft of the DNA Structure and Function essay (4 paragraphs.)

Thursday, May 19, 2011

DNA Structure Notes, Organ System Presentations

Today in biology students took notes about DNA structure (on NB pp. 150-152.)  Get a DNA structure handout from the Week 37 folder in the Document Crate.  Also, I checked the Isolating DNA from Your Cheek Cells Lab (NB p. 148.)

For homework, complete the "Review: DNA Structure" handout on NB p. 153.  (Get it from the document crate.)

In AP bio, students presented their organ system projects.

For homework, highlight and annotate the frog dissection lab handout, due tomorrow.

Friday, May 13, 2011

Check Punnett Squares, Start Body Systems Project

On Friday in Biology, we went over Punnett Squares #1, 2, and 3.  I checked them in for completion and then students checked them for correctness.  If you were absent, be sure to check with me to get credit for your work.  Also make sure that you get your Intro to Genetics Quizzes back from the returned work box.

In 2nd and 4th periods, we started Punnett Squares #3, so get that from the Week 36 folder.

For homework, finish Punnett Squares #3 (2nd and 4th only) and study for Monday's Punnett Squares quiz.

In AP biology, students got into groups to begin an organ systems project.  Get your assignment from the Week 36 folder if you were absent.  The posters will be due on Wednesday next week.

For homework, each group assigned its members homework in order to ensure that the project will be completed by the end of the day on Wednesday.

Thursday, May 12, 2011

NWEA testing,extra credit opportunity

For AP bio, your extra credit opportunity is to visit the following website and to take notes and draw pictures to prepare for the frog dissection.  The more you take notes, the more points you will get, up to 30 pts. of homework.  

For regular bio, see Wednesday's blog post for your extra credit.

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

NWEA testing, extra credit opportunity

Today in biology, we completed NWEA testing for science.  When you finish, you may complete your Punnett Squares #1 and #2 OR do the following web-based activity for extra credit.

Record your information for extra credit on notebook p. 138.  Who's the Daddy? Tutorial

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Punnett Squares Practice, Evolution Video

Today in biology, we did Punnett Squares #2 question #7 as a do now question.  Then we worked in groups to check and modify the Punnett Squares problems that I gave students feedback on (Punnett Squares #1 that were assigned on Friday and I returned on Monday) and the first 3 questions on Punnett Squares #2.  Then students worked on finishing the rest of Punnett Squares #2.  We went over the answers for PS #1 in class.  If you were absent, make sure to see Ms. Adams to get the correct answers for PS #1 so you can ensure that you are doing them correctly.

For homework, finish up all of the Punnett Squares #1 and 2, review them, label them correctly, and make sure they are pasted in your notebook.

In AP bio, we watched a video about evolution.

Monday, May 9, 2011

AP Exam, Intro to Genetics Quiz

Today the AP biology students took the AP biology exam. 

Today in regular biology, I collected the notebooks and checked for the Genetics Frayer Models and the notes on p. 118.  If you were absent, make sure to make those things up.  Also, get the handouts back from the returned work drawer from your period and put them in your notebook.  Finally, I handed out Punnett Squares #2.  Get it from the Week 36 folder.

For homework, do three of the Punnett Squares #2 problems.

Friday, May 6, 2011

Punnett Squares #1

Today in biology, students completed "Punnett Squares #1," which consisted of five genetics problems.  Get the handouts from the Week 35 folder.  Use five Graphic Organizers for Solving Genetics Problems to solve the five genetics problems.  Turn the five problems in.

I checked the Frayer Models on NB pp. 114-117.

For homework: Review the genetics vocabulary/Frayer Models on pp. 114-117 for Monday's vocab quiz.  There will be one Punnnett square on the quiz.

In AP biology, students studied for the AP bio test, which is Monday at 8 AM.

Thursday, May 5, 2011

Punnett Squares 101

If you were absent on Thursday, then you missed out on the basics of Punnett Squares.  You also need to get a bunch of handouts from the Week 35 folder.

First, get the "Genetics Vocab Entrance Ticket" and turn it in.

Then, finish the Genetics and Probability Lab (NB pp. 122-123.)  Have Ms. Adams check it.

Then, get the handouts "Punnett Squares 101" (1 of 2 and 2 of 2) and glue onto NB pp. 124-125.  Read through these steps as you read the "Punnett Squares 101 Sample Problem"  (NB p. 127) and the "Graphic Organizer for Solving Genetics Problems" (NB p. 126.)  Check out Ms. Adams' or a classmate's notebook to see how the graphic organizer was filled out, based on this sample problem.

For homework: Review NB pp. 124-125.  Frayer Model Vocabulary Due Friday.

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Probability with Pennies, Analyzing DNA

Today in regular bio, we did a probability lab with pennies.  (Get the 2 handouts from the Week 35 folder.)  You can actually do this activity at home, so if you were absent, get the handouts and do it at home and show it to me within three days.  (Make sure to get the class data from me or from a classmate.)

For homework, continue working on the genetics Frayer model words (due Friday.)  Attempt the lab analysis questions for tomorrow.

In AP bio, I provided the band patterns for the DNA analysis.  Use it to measure the distance that the DNA fragments traveled.  Then make a graph of your DNA Marker data.  Then analyze the results.

For homework, finish the lab.  Continue to study for the AP test.  Bring your practice AP test and both your semester 1 and semester 2 materials to class on Thursday.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

What'd Mendel Do? DNA Fingerprinting Lab

Today in regular bio, students completed notes on textbook section 10.1 on notebook pp. 118-120.  Read the section, write questions, and take notes.  I checked students' notebooks for pp. 105, 107-108, and the first 5 Frayer Model vocab words on p. 114.  (See the table of contents if you do not know what any of these items are.)

For homework, start working on the remaining 8 Frayer Models words (on NB pp. 115-117.)  All of the words are due on Friday.  The words are

  1. heredity
  2. genetics
  3. trait
  4. gamete
  5. fertilization
  6. hybrid
  7. phenotype
  8. genotype
The extra credit words are
  1. pollination
  2. law of segregation
  3. law of independent assortment
In AP bio, we worked on Lab 6A.  Turn in your DNA essay. 

For homework, do the lab analysis questions that you can in the absence of data (I will give you the data tomorrow.)  Also, keep studying, studying, studying for the AP test.  Bring both your 1st and 2nd semester notebooks tomorrow.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Monday, Monday

Today the do now for all classes was about making connections between our current studies of DNA and genetics and how they used tissue from Osama bin Laden's late sister's brain to help identify his body.  Check your table of contents for the appropriate page number.

If you were absent on Monday, make sure you get the Genetics Intro Notes on notebook pp. 112-113 for regular bio.

For homework, do Frayer models on pp. 114-115 of the following words: homozygous, heterozygous, dominant, recessive, allele.

In AP bio, we had a pre-lab for AP Lab 6B.  I also checked your highlighting of those notes.

For homework, finish the DNA and DNA replication essay, due tomorrow.  Review Cell Structure and Function and Replication.  Review Lab 6B.

Friday, April 29, 2011

Friday after PSAE

If you chose not to come to school on Friday, then you missed out!  In AP bio, we made models of DNA with Twizzlers and Dots.  There's an associated essay that is due on Tuesday.  (Otherwise, see Tuesday's blog post for other homework.)

In regular bio, we finished Tuesday's webquest and I checked the homework from p. 105 #12.  If you chose not to come to school on Friday, make sure you finish the work described on Tuesday, April 26 and have me check it.

For homework, do a summary of the webquest on pp. 107-108.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Heredity and Genetics Webquest

Today  we did the Heredity and Genetics Webquest.   Take Cornell Notes on NB p. 107-108.  You should make and answer AT LEAST five questions.  Make sure that you go through the entire webquest and take notes on it.  The entire webquest will be due at the end of the day on Friday.

We also went over the 11 question ACT quiz that we took on Monday, if you were absent, make sure to get yours from the returned work box and affix it to the appropriate pages in your notebook (109-110.)

There was no homework over the days of the PSAE, but make sure you have NB p. 105 #12 (Who's the Daddy?  Will this Help?) completed for Friday (I forgot to check it on Tuesday.)

For AP bio, we took notes on DNA structure and DNA replication.  Also, get AP Lab #6 from the document crate (Week 34.)

For homework, Read, highlight, and annotate Part 6B of the Lab, due Monday.  For Friday, review the DNA Structure and Replication Notes and start reviewing first semester notes (chemistry of life.)

Monday, April 25, 2011

Welcome back!

If you were absent, make sure you turn in the spring break homework upon your return.  Also, make sure you make arrangements with Ms. Adams to take the welcome back quiz.  (The previous info is true for both AP and regular bio.)

For regular bio, also get the "Who's the Daddy?" handout from the Week 34 folder.  (And get back the DNA Day Do Now/Exit Ticket and put them on NB pp. 103-104.

For homework, finish #12 on the "Who's the Daddy?" handout (NB p. 105.)

For AP bio, read Sections 16.1 and 16.2 for homework.  (And dig out your first semester notebook.)

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Quiz tomorrow!

I hope you all had a wonderful spring break!  Remember that there will be a quiz tomorrow.  (AP bio, it's about evolution, including Hardy-Weinberg equilibria, regular bio, it's about science ACT!)

See you in the morning!

Friday, April 15, 2011

DNA Day!

Today we had our genetics counselor guest speaker. If you were absent, you missed this classwork assignment.

For homework:
For regular bio:
1)Do the practice ACT test (in the gray packet)
2) Finish the white ACT packet
3) prepare for Monday's ACT quiz (3 passages)


for AP:
1) read, highlight, and annotate the DNA packet
2) attempt the practice AP test
3) study for the AP test
4) study for Monday's evolution quiz

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Tuesday

This week, 8th period's agenda and assignments will be different than the rest of the regular bio classes (see below.)

For all regular bio periods except 8th, get a piece of graph paper from the Week 33 folder, set it up to record your progress on the ACT passages, and glue it on NB p. 101.

Then have Ms. Adams check your ACT Science Practice packet from 30-35 for credit.  Finally, complete through p. 43 in your ACT packet for Tuesday.  4th period, make sure I've seen your annotations/corrections for your ACT science test (on NB pp. 92-99.)

In 8th period, have Ms. Adams check pp. 10-19 in your ACT Science Practice packet for homework credit.  

Then do pp. 20-30 by Tuesday.

In AP bio, make sure you turn in your AP Lab 8.  Also, have me check your notes for Section 23.1 and 23.2.  Finally, we took notes called "Evolution Basics."  

For homework, finish reading and highlighting the Evolution packet that I gave you yesterday (it's in the Week 33 folder) and is due tomorrow.

Monday, April 11, 2011

Act practice

Today in regular bio, we worked on the ACT packet. We did practice passage #9 for a do now and then pp. 30-32. I also checked the annotations/corrections on NB pp. 92-99.

For homework, finish through p. 35. (for 8th pd., finish through p. 19)

In AP bio, we worked on Lab 8 problems. Also get the evolution packet, due Thurs.

For homework, finish all of Lab 8 and the notes for chapter 23.1 and 23.2.

Friday, April 8, 2011

Thursday and Friday 1/2 Days

On Thursday and Friday we had half days, that meant that on Thursday, I saw 5th and 6th period classes.  On Friday, I saw 1st, 2nd, and 4th periods.  8th period, I did not see you due to the change in schedule.

For regular bio classes, we began the ACT Science workbook.  If you were absent, there is a copy of it with your name on it in your class period's drawer.  There are not extra copies of it, so make sure to keep it somewhere safe.

First, scan through pp. 2-10 and star anything that you need to review.  Then review it and do the associated problems.  If you do not need to review any of the topics on pp. 2-10, then move on to pp. 11 and on.

For homework, finish through  Practice Passage #7 (p. 25.)  (6th period you should do through p. 27)

In AP bio, our do now was on p. 101, "What do you know about sickle cell anemia and the sickle cell trait?

Then we did cases 2 and 3 from AP Lab #8.  The analysis questions are due on Tuesday.  Also, notes on Ch 23.1 and 23.2 are due on Tuesday.  Start them over the weekend so we may discuss them on Monday.

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Tomorrow's a B day, Friday's an A day

Thursday will be a "B" day, so periods 5, 6, and 8 will meet (although 8 will be the College Expo.)

Friday will be an "A" day, so periods 1, 2, and 4 will meet.

Population Genetics Lab, Analyze Recent ACT Results

Today in AP biology, we completed Case Study 1 of the Population Genetics Lab (Lab 8.)  For homework, re-read the rest of the cases and also do the analysis questions for Case Study 1.

In regular bio, we re-did the do now questions from yesterday (I passed them back--if you were absent, get them from your period's returned work drawer.) and then put them on p. 100 in your notebook.  Then we worked on our annotations about the reasons why we got the questions wrong on the last ACT.  (See NB pp. 92-99.)  This will be due on Thursday or Friday (whenever I will see your class on the half day.)

I also checked NB p. 90 (the reflection about quarter 3 that was assigned on Monday.  If you were absent, make sure you have me check it.)

 For homework: Finish your ACT correction annotations (due Thursday for 5th and 6th) and due Friday for 2nd and 4th), due Monday for 8th.

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

If you were absent (or on a field trip), then do the following:

Get the do now packet from the Week 32 box.

For 2nd and 4th period, it is the one labeled "Passage VI"
For 5th, 6th, and 8th periods, it is the one labeled "Passage III"

We worked from the ACT problem booklet at question explanations that are in your notebook on pp. 92-99.

First, I modeled how to mark and answer the questions in Passage VI, even if you don't have content knowlege.  Then students worked independently and then in pairs to do the same with Passage VII.  The big take-home message was that it extremely important to get through the test to get the "easy" questions that are in the last two passages.

Monday, April 4, 2011

Wrap up Q3, plan for Q4

Today was the first day of the fourth quarter.

If you were absent, make sure to check the returned work drawer for your class period to get your quarter 3 exams (including the ACT print outs) and then put them on the appropriate pages in your notebook, according to the table of contents that's posted in the room.

For regular bio, students worked in partners to check whether they appropriately marked the text on their ACT passages and questions.  Then they went over the questions to determine why they got the questions that they missed incorrect.  If you were absent, also get the ACT Test Questions Explanations Packet from the Week 32 folder and put it on NB pp. 94-99.

For homework, write a 3/4 page essay on NB p. 90 in which you reflect on your quarter 3 work.  How do your Q3 exam scores and your Q3 grades demonstrate your work ethic?  What will you change or keep the same for Q4?  Have your parent sign this essay.  It is due on Wednesday.

In regular bio, we went over the exam essays and Q3 grades.  I also explained the grading for the Fruit Fly Lab Report.  Then we took notes on Notebook p. 99 about AP Lab 8.  Get the notes from a classmate.  Also, get the handout for AP Lab 8 from the Week 32 folder.

For homework, read, highlight, and annotate AP Lab 8, due tomorrow.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Q3 ACT test

Today in biology, students took their Q3 ACT test.

If you were absent, see me to make it up.

For homework over the weekend, work on your ACT problems by working in your Cambridge Vol. 1 and 2 books or by practicing online.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Fruit Flies!

Reminder: AP bio, you should have already completed the online fruit fly lab.

Trend Analysis, AP Q3 test

Today in regular bio, we took notes on analyzing trends (NB p. 85.). Then do practice ACT problems on cambridge vol. 2 pp. 245-274 (answers on p. 597) and act basics on Cambridge vol. 1 pp. 638-655.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Online Feedback

Ok, AP bio, I logged on and gave you comments and feedback on your online lab reports, so use that to improve upon them!

Q3 test, sex-linked traits

Today in regular bio, students took their quarter 3 test about cell division.   I also collected notebooks in order to check the lab on pp. 75-76.   If you were absent, see me to make it up by the end of the day on Thursday.  Also, give me your notebook.

For homework, bring your Cambridge Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 books tomorrow to prepare for Thursday's science ACT portion of the Q3 exam.

Today in AP bio, we went over sex-linked traits and the study guide questions.

For homework, study for tomorrow's test.  The Fruit Fly Virtual Lab is due Wed. at 5 PM.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Prepping for Q3 exams

Today in regular bio, I checked the Cell Division Study Guides in preparation for tomorrow's Quarter 3 exam.

If you have been absent and need a study guide, add a comment to the blog with your email address so I can send it to you.  (Your email address will not be published, I will get it and email the document to you.)

Homework: Study for Tuesday's exam, bring a number 2 pencil.  Bring the lab on NB pp. 75-76 for tomorrow's correctness check.

In AP bio, we went over the dihybrid cross problems.  I also gave out a few handouts (3).  Our exam will be on Wednesday.

For homework, read the Sex-Linked Traits/Sex Determination handout and complete the Q3 exam questions for tomorrow.  Remember that your Fruit Fly online lab report is due on Wednesday at 5 PM.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Friday!

Today in regular bio, I checked the Onion-Fish Cell Cycle Lab for completion.  If you were absent, make sure to have me check it upon your return.  Also, I gave out a study guide for Tuesday's Cell Division Exam.

For homework, do at least 75% (3/4) of the Study Guide for Monday.  Those who have attempted it will check their answers and then work on the other 1/4 of the Study Guide.  Remember we have the test on Tuesday.

For AP bio, students worked on the online Lab Reports for the Virtual Fruit Fly Lab.  They are due on Wednesday.  The Genetics Test (with an essay and multiple choice questions) will be on Tuesday.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Virtual Fruit Fly Lab

Today in AP biology, we will do a Virtual Fruit Fly Lab.  You will ned a Class Code, which is 6553138 to set up your account.  You will be setting up your own experiment to do a monohybrid cross (Assignment A.)  You will complete an online lab report with this assignment.  Any additional assignments (C is recommended) may be completed for extra credit.  The online lab reports are due next Wednesday, March 30 at 5 PM.  If you were absent, there are two handouts, labeled "Fruit Fly Lab #1" and "Fruit Fly Lab #2" that you should get from the Week 30 folder.

Homework: Look at yesterday's post for homework due Friday.

For regular bio, I only saw 2nd period, and we worked on our Onion and Fish Mitosis Lab reports.

Lab reports are due on Friday!

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Dihybrid Punnett Squares, part 2, Fish & Onion Lab Part 2

Announcements for all classes: The quarter 3 final exams will be as follows:
Part 1: Tuesday, March 29: 50 pts (course content from 3rd quarter)
Part 2: Thursday, March 31: 50 pts (ACT science test)

Also, the LAST day to turn in any late work for third quarter is this Thursday!  Tutoring will be after school on Wednesday and Thursday this week.

Today in Biology, we did the second part of the Fish and Onion Cell Cycle Lab in which we counted the cells in the various phases of the cell cycle.  If you were absent, see me to make it up on Wednesday or Thursday after school and also to get your class data.

Homework: The entire lab and graph will be due on Friday.

Today in AP biology, I checked the student's dihybrid punnett square problems and then we continued working on them.

For homework, finish all of the dihybrid and probability problems by Friday.  The trihybrid problems are extra credit.  Meet in the Longwood Lab tomorrow for a virtual lab about fruit fly genetics.

Monday, March 21, 2011

Onion and Fish Mitosis Lab, Dihybrid Cross Problems

Today in biology we did the first part of the Onion and Fish Mitosis Lab.  (If you were absent, see me to make it up on Wednesday or Thursday after school.)  The lab will be stapled on p. 75.

At the beginning of the period, I checked the "ID the IPMAT" page of the lab to make sure that you correctly identified the phases of the cell cycle and did the percentage calculations with the sub on Friday.  If you were absent, see me so I can check it.

For homework, re-read the lab so you are familiar with Day 2's procedures.

Today in AP biology, we went over dihybrid Punnett square crosses.  If you were absent, then get the packet from the Week 30 folder in the document crate.

For homework, do at least 4 of the dihybrid cross problems.  15/18 of the problems will be due on Wednesday.

Friday, March 18, 2011

AP Essay Prep, Reg Bio Lab Prep

Today in AP bio, students read a packet about preparing for AP essays and then they had an opportunity to employ those tactics by completing a practice AP essay about animal phyla and phylogenetic trees.  If you were absent, please get the handouts from the Week 29 folder.

Today in regular bio, students completed a handout called "ID the IPMAT" and then marked the text to prepare for Monday's lab about onion and whitefish blastula mitosis. If you were absent, please get the handouts from the Week 29 folder.

Thursday, March 17, 2011

ACT prep Thursday, Session 3

Today in the ACT prep session, students received copies of their ACT booklets from the February interim assessment and they made corrections to their science tests.

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Sub plans

I was at an AP biology workshop today learning a lot about how to help the AP biology students improve their scores on the AP bio test, which is May 9, 2011.  We also talked about the changes that will be happening for the 2012-2013 course and test.

While I was away at the workshop, the students at Longwood were working hard on work with the sub.

For regular bio, read the text about Earthquakes in Japan and answer the questions.  (If you were absent, get the packet from the Week 29 folder in the document crate.)

For AP biology, read and take Cornell notes on Concept 14.2 and then do the 3 questions on Concept Check 14.2.

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Make up day, Cell Division Essay

Today in biology, students had the opportunity to make up work to improve their grades.  If you were absent, you should retrieve your cell exam scan tron form and question packet from the returned work drawer and then make corrections on looseleaf paper.  You must explain why you got the question wrong/why the correct answer is right.

You could also work in the Internet Mitosis Lab.

For AP biology, I handed back a lot of work (get it from the returned work drawer.)  Then I modeled how to answer the essay question that was on the Cell division test.  Write a new essay and turn it in.

Homework: Read Concept 14.2.

Monday, March 14, 2011

March 9-14: AP Design-Your-Own Lab

In AP biology, from March 9-11, students worked in groups to design their own labs to explore the relationship between the PTC phenotypes and other characteristics.  On Friday the 11th, we conducted the experiments.  The full lab reports are due on Monday, March 14.

For homework, work with your group to determine what needs to be done in order to meet your deadlines. Also, complete Punnett Squares #4 by Friday, March 11.  (Get it from the Week 28 folder in the document crate.)

March 9-14: Cell Cycle Stories

On Wed. March 9, we started the Cell Cycle stories projects in Regular bio.  It was a multi-day project that involved creating an analogous story to represent the phases of the cell cycle.  You should draft your story on pages 71-73 of your notebook.  When your draft is approved, then you can create your poster.  The project was due on Monday, March 14.

During this time period, students assigned one another homework in their groups in order to ensure that the work was completed by the deadline.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

ACT Prep Thursday, Session 2

Today we did targeted ACT prep, with a focus on marking the text.  If you were absent, make sure to get the handouts and your folder ad mark the text.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Internet Mitosis Lab

Today we're doing a virtual lab to explore the cell cycle in an onion root tip.

When you are finished with that and you want to do the 10 bonus lab points, click here.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Bitter Taste Gene

I just found this cool site within the National Institutes of Health where you can look up information about specific genes.  Here's the page about the TAS2R38 gene, which is the one for the PTC bitter taste receptor protein.

Friday, March 4, 2011

Friday-Weekend Homework

On Friday, many students were rewarded for their gains on the ACT by attending the bowling/skating field trip.  For those that stayed behind, we worked on make up work and homework.  If you were absent, then it is your responsibility to make sure that you are all caught up with your make up work and homework.


The weekend homework:


Reg bio: Finish all 16 Frayer models by Tuesday! Use the Reproduction and Cell Division Unit Links on my website.


In AP bio, I checked the "Practice Genetics Problems" and then we went over them.


AP bio homework: Read, highlight, and take Cornell Notes on the PTC & Bitter taste article

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Thursday-ACT/PSAE Prep

Today students were split into groups and we worked on ACT Prep in various classrooms all day.  If you were absent, check with me so that I can provide you the work so that you will be prepared for this week's Thursday session.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Frayer Models, cont.

Today in biology, we continued working on the Frayer models.  You should have 12 of them finished by Friday.

Also, I showed videos to help clarify the terms cleavage furrow, cell plate, sister chromatid.  They can be found here:

Animation of Cell Division
Animal Cell Division
Plant Cell Mitosis

For homework, finish 12 Frayer models by Friday.

In AP biology, we went over the "Intro to Genetics" problems and the "Trait? Allele? Dominant? Recessive?" problems.  Make sure that I look at them and give you a grade if you were absent.

For homework, do the "Practice Genetics Problems" by Friday.

Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Cell Division Frayer Models

Today in biology, I checked notebook pp. 55-57 and 60-61.  Also we had a practice ACT timed reading (Passage V.)  Then students began doing Frayer Models for vocabulary with the following words on notebook pp. 62-65:

  1. surface area to volume ratio
  2. chromosome
  3. chromatin
  4. cell cycle
  5. interphase
  6. mitosis
  7. cytokinesis
  8. prophase
  9. prometaphase
  10. metaphase
  11. anaphase
  12. telophase
  13. daughter cells
  14. sister chromatids
  15. cell plate
  16. cleavage furrow
For homework, do 6 of the Frayer Models.

For AP bio, James did his Mammalia presentation and we went over the "intro to Genetics Problems" handout.  Also, I provided students with a "Punnett Squares 101" handout.

Monday, February 28, 2011

Cell Division Notes, Cell Division Exam Corrections

Today in biology, I checked notebook pp. 55-57 (see last Thursday's blog post.) The do now was a timed practice ACT passage (get it from the Week 27 folder.)  I also returned the work that was done with the sub on Friday.

Homework: Write summaries for pp. 55-57 and 60-61.

In AP biology, we did the same timed ACT passage mentioned above.  (Get it from the Week 27 folder.)  Students also received their Cell Division Exams back and made corrections to the questions that they got wrong for partial credit.

For homework, finish the Genetics handouts that you were given on Friday.

Friday, February 25, 2011

Sub Plans

Today I was at a meeting outside of the building, so there was a sub.  Here is the work that was done:


In biology, read Section 8.2 (pp. 207-211) in the textbook and answer the following questions (on NB pp. 58-59) in Cornell Notes format (There is a handout that you may find in the week 26 folder.)

1) What factors limit cell size?
2) Give one example of how each of the 3 factors limits cell size.
3) What is the result of cell division?
4) What is a chromosome and what does it carry?
5) Describe what chromatin is and what it looks like.  Also, during what part of the cell's life cycle is chromatin visible?
6) What is the cell cycle and describe what occurs during each part of the cell cycle.
7) Read pp. 212-215 and describe the phases of Interphase and Mitosis.

No homework over the weekend (presuming you have your homework that was due today done...it will be checked on Monday.)

In AP biology, students worked on a variety of Punnett Square-related handouts.  Get them from the Week 26 folder.

No homework over the weekend (presuming you have your homework that was due today done...it will be checked on Monday.)

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Cell Organelle Test, Genetics Intro Notes

Today in biology, students took the cell organelle exam.  See Ms. Adams to set up a time to take it if you were absent.

After the test, students read and marked the "Cell Cycle and Mitosis Tutorial" (get it from the Week 26 folder in the document crate...or see it at the link above.)  Then they took Cornell Notes on it.

For homework: Finish reading the "cell cycle and mitosis" tutorial and take cornell notes.  AP: finish your Frayer models for the genetics vocabulary.

In AP bio, we finished taking the "Intro to Genetics" notes and then students worked on Frayer Models of the pertinent vocabulary from the notes.

For homework: Finish the Frayer models (minimum 15, maximum 19)

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

Review Jeopardy, Intro to Genetics Notes

Today in biology, I checked students' study guides for tomorrow's exam.  Then we played review jeopardy.

If you have any late or missing work to turn in, you must to so by 4:00 PM tomorrow!

Homework: Study for the exam!

Today in AP biology, we took notes over the Intro to Genetics.  Get the notes from Ms. Adams or from a classmate.  I also checked students' notes over Section 14.1.

Homework: Review your notes, highlight them, and re-read section 14.1.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Working on study guides, Taking the Cell Division Test

Today in biology, I checked the first half of the Cell Exam study guides and then students finished the rest of their study guides.

For homework: Review your study guides for tomorrow's Jeopardy game and Thursday's test.

Today in AP biology, we took the Cell Division Exam.  See Ms. Adams to make it up.

For homework, take notes on Textbook section 14.1.

Sunday, February 20, 2011

AP Biology Flash Cards for TI-84

I just noticed that there are electronic flash cards for the AP Biology Test that you may download for your TI-84 calculators.

Check it out!

Friday, February 18, 2011

Protein Factory, Lancelets Presentation, Cell Division Exam Review

Today in biology, I checked the homework (summaries of notebook pp. 48-49) and those that were finished worked in groups to complete the Cell Challenge: Protein Factory Lab Activity.  If you were absent, see me to check your homework and set up a time for Wednesday or Thursday after school to make up the lab activity.

For homework, answer 6 of the questions on the Cells Review Sheet (if you were absent, get the THREE (3) sheets from the Week 25 folder.)

In AP bio, I checked the Cell Division review sheet and then students worked in groups to go over it.  Then Savannah finished her presentation about Lancelets, so get the notes from someone.

For homework, study for the Cell Division test, which will be on Tuesday.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Organelle Structure and Function, amphibians, review sheet

Today in biology, students received their organelle quizzes back (get it from your period's drawer in the returned work box and then put it on NB p. 34.

Then students used Cornell Notes to respond to the following questions: 1) what is similar about chloplasts and mitochondria? (in terms of their structure and function ) on p. 48. On p. 49: what's similar about the nucleus, Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, and ribosome? (in terms of structure and function?)

For homework in Reg. Bio: write summaries on NB p.48-49 (finish the classwork if you didn't) Correct your quiz on p. 34 (if necessary.)

In AP bio, we took notes on the Chordata/Reptilia presentation and then worked on the Cell Division Review Sheet. Get the handouts crom the week 26 folder in the document crate.

For AP homework, finish the cell division review sheet.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

ACT Prep, 2 AP Bio presentations

Today in regular bio, we did 3 practice science passages for the interim ACT assessment.  You can find them in the Week 26 folder, labeled p. 42-43, 44-45 and 46-47.

For homework, practice your ACT questions and review your key terms.  Sleep well and eat protein for breakfast to sustain your energy.

Today in regular bio, Tre' and Monet' presented about Hagfish and Lampreys and then Shatara and Teyonna presented about Echinoderms.  Get the notes and handouts upon your return.

For homework, complete all of the ODP presentation handouts by Thursday.  Also, we will have a cell division exam on Friday, so review mitosis and meiosis.

Friday, February 11, 2011

ACT Review, Insect Presentation

Today in biology, we went over the homework (Passage VII on NB p. 39) and the classwork from yesterday (Passage I on NB p. 38.)  I checked both, so if you were absent, make sure you have me check them.  Then students took Cornell Notes on the 8 ACT Strategies that Work packet (borrow one from the Week 25 folder) on NB p. 40-41.  I also gave out slips of paper with the December scores on them and students pasted them in the inside cover of their notebooks.

For homework, practice your sample ACT questions from your final exam packet and any other location that you can find.  (Check out http://www.act.org/ too.)

In AP biology, Brielle did her presentation on Insects.  Then we went over the ACT packet on NB p. 33.  For homework, do Practice Test 3 in Cambridge Vol. II pp. 484-494 and check your answers.

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Extrapolating Data, 2 AP Bio presentations

Today in biology, we went over the exit ticket from yesterday (just questions 7, 8, and 9) and glued it on NB p. 36.  Then I checked last night's homework (the summary on NB p. 35.)  Then students read, marked the text, wrote questions, and a summary of the Extrapolating/Predicting Results Notes (get from the Week 24 folder) on NB p. 37.

Finally, students marked the text and answered questions in an ACT passage (Passage #1/Extrapolation/Prediction Practice--get it from the Week 24 folder) and turned it in for classwork.

For homework, complete Passage VII on NB p. 39 (get it from the Week 24 folder.)

In AP biology, we had two presentations (Chordata-jawed fish by Chris and Tunicates and Lancelets by Savannah.)  Get the handouts from the Week 24 box and the notes from a classmate.

For homework, finish the rest of the ACT practice questions (on NB p. 33) by tomorrow.  Work on the crossword puzzle, due Monday.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Ok, there's a facebook account too.

In addition to this blog, twitter, and email, I've now created a CICS-Longwood facebook page.  So "Like" my page and get the updates on homework, etc.

ACT Practice, Meiosis Crossing Over Lab

Today in biology, I checked students' homework from the Cambridge Vol. 1 book.  (If you were absent, have me check it.)  Then we took notes on NB p. 35 on manipulating data in data presentations (get from a classmate.)  Then students worked on practice problems from the Cambridge Vol. 1 pp. 652-654.  Finally, students completed an Exit ticket.  (Get it from the Week 24 folder in the Document Crate.  Complete only #7-9.)

Homework: Complete a summary about the notes on NB p. 35.

Today in AP biology, students completed Lab 3.B.2.  They used the Sordaria to view the results of crossing over from meiosis.

For homework, complete all of the ACT practice problems by Friday.

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Bing! Quiz! ACT Prep

Today in biology we played Bing!  (a short version of BINGO) to review for an organelle quiz.  If you were absent, make sure to review for the quiz and then schedule a time with Ms. Adams to take the 10 minute quiz over organelle function.  I also checked the Frayer models on notebook pp. 28-31, so make sure I check those too.

For homework, bring your Cambridge Vol. 1 books tomorrow.  Also complete the following problems in Cambridge Vol. 1 pp. 674-675: #72-82.

In AP Bio, students turned in their lab questions #1, 2, 3, and 5 on p. 39 and the meiosis handout.  Then we worked on ACT practice problems. 

For AP homework, finish the ACT practice problems (they're on NB p. 33) by Friday.  Also--if you didn't turn in Lab 3, bring it tomorrow because the Sordaria came in so we can do the lab on Wed.

Monday, February 7, 2011

Catch up from Friday

Today in all of my classes, we caught up from Friday and from last week.

In biology, finish your Frayer models on NB pp. 28-31.  Also, get a Plant Cell diagram handout from the Week 24 folder.

If you are all done with everything, get the "Cell as a City" extra credit assignment from the Week 24 folder (it's due on Wednesday.)

For homework, Review and highlight your Frayer Models for tomorrow's quiz on organelle function.

In AP bio, students who were not present on Friday completed Friday's assignment (see Friday's blog post.)  People who were present on Friday had their work checked and then they worked on the Lab 3.B.2 pre-lab.

For homework, answer the analysis questions from Lab 3.B.1 (all except the one about spermatogenesis and oogenesis.)

Friday, February 4, 2011

Friday after the blizzard

On Friday, I was absent, and so were over 50% of you.  For regular bio, students should finish their Modified Frayer Models* (12 required, 15 for extra credit) on NB pp. 28-31.  They should use the textbook section 7.3, their Amazing Cells Webquest, and the animal cell diagram on NB p. 26 of their notebooks.  Check the blog post from Tuesday for the words.

*There is a poster on a bulletin board in the room to explain what should be in the Frayer Model.  The bottom two boxes should be 1) Examples of Structure (A description of what the organelle looks like and where it's located) and 2) An Analogy (a connection or comparison to what you know.)

You may complete the "Cell as a City" assignment for Extra Credit (but only if all of their other assignments are finished and graded.)  (Get the handout from the Week 23 Folder in the Document Crate.)


Reg. Bio Homework: Review the organelles' functions and what they look like.


For AP bio, Students completed AP Lab 3.B.1.  (We may have to revisit this on Monday, since it looks like 50% of the class was absent.)  Get 4 pipe cleaners (2 yellow and 2 red.)  Get the "Crossing over and Meiosis" handout from the Week 23 Folder and the Lab 3B.1: Simulation of Meiosis (that they already have and should have read and annotated for homework) in order to simulate meiosis and crossing over.  Answer analysis questions #1, 2, 3, and 5 on Lab p. 39-40.

AP Bio Homework: Re-read Lab 3.B.2.

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Snow Day! (Mitosis Meiosis Lab link)

I hope everyone is enjoying their day off (and that everyone has power and is staying warm.)  Although this is my first snow day as a teacher, I like to think of days like these as "extra" days to do the things that we don't get around to during the rest of the week.

Thanks to Monet', I found an online version of the AP lab, so here it is!  Start reading on p. 15.  (The page numbers are different from the original packet.

AP Lab #3: Mitosis & Meiosis (from Carolina)

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

In class essays, Frayer Models explained

Today in biology I further explained the Frayer models for vocabulary for the organelles on pp. 28-31.  In the two bottom boxes, students should write about 1) Examples of Structure (A description of what the organelle looks like and where it's located) and 2) An Analogy (a connection or comparison to what you know.)

Students used Section 7.3 in the textbook to read about the organelles.  Then they filled out information in their Frayer models about the organelles.  The list of organelles is below.  The starred* organelles are extra credit.

  1. chromatin
  2. ribosome
  3. endoplasmic reticulum
  4. golgi apparatus
  5. vacuole
  6. chloroplasts
  7. chlorophyll*
  8. mitochondria
  9. cytoskeleton*
  10. cilia
  11. flagella
  12. cell wall
  13. nucleolus
  14. cytoplasm
  15. nucleus*
For homework, all of the Frayer Model words will be due on Friday.

In AP bio, students wrote an in class essay title comparing and contrasting mitosis and meiosis.  Then I returned a bunch of assignments and students looked at their grades, which were posted. 

For homework, read and annotate Lab 3B1 and 3B2 (packet pp. 35-44 by Thursday.)  (Email Ms. Adams ASAP at jennifer.adams@cics.edisonlearning.com if you do not have your Lab 3 packet.)

Monday, January 31, 2011

Happy Monday!

Today in biology we did a variety of different activities. First we took notes on improving our technical writing by adding specific language. Get the notes on NB p. 25 from Ms. Adams or a classmate. Don't forget to do a summary. Then we highlighted the most important ideas from the Amazing Cells webquest on pp. 20-21. Finally we set up modified Frayer models for organelle vocabulary on pp. 28-31. Also be sure to get the animal cell handout from the Week 23 folder in the document crate.

For homework, complete the top two boxes (definition/function and illustration for six of the organelles that are listed on NB pp. 20-21.

In AP bio, I checked the notes on concept 13.3. Then students made a Venn diagram comparing and contrasting mitosis & meiosis. This will be used for an in class essay tomorrow.

For HW, highlight and summarize your notes.

Friday, January 28, 2011

Pop quiz, meiosis notes

Today in biology, students took a pop quiz over Organelle structure and function. See Ms. Adams to make it up no later than Wed. after school. We also went over the final exam on NB pp. 17-18 so see Ms. Adams if you have any questions. I checked the Amazing Cells webquest. Reg. Bio: check ur grades, do makeup work by Monday.

In AP Bio, students took notes on Meiosis on NB p. 24.

For homework, read concept 13.3 and take notes.

The website for the AP bio book is Campbell AP Biology Book Website

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Make up day, Arthropoda presentation

Today in biology, I posted current grades and then allowed students to make up missing work.  If you were absent or were on the field trip, please be sure to check with me as soon as possible about your grade and/or to make up any missing work because progress reports come out next week.

For homework, finish the Amazing Cells Webquest, which is due tomorrow.

Today in AP biology, Todd did his presentation about the first group of Arthropods, all but the Insects.  Get the two handouts from the Document Crate.

For AP homework, complete the Arthropoda handout, due Monday.

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

NWEA testing

Today in biology and AP biology, students took the NWEA Measures of Academic Progress test.  If you were absent, you will be called to take the test on a make up day.

For homework, continue working on the homework that I posted on yesterday's blog post.

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Amazing Cells Webquest, Phylogeny vs. Cladistics

Today in biology, students completed the Amazing Cells Webquest.  (get from Week 22 Folder.)

For homework, finish the webquest by Friday.  (Meet in the Longwood Lab tomorrow for NWEA testing.)

Today in AP biology, students completed the Phylogeny vs. Cladistics Review (get from Week 22 Folder.)    Also, get the notes from a classmate about the Character Table that was presented by Kristi, Todd, Alexis, and Raven.

For homework, review your notes.

Monday, January 24, 2011

Finish your work!

Today many students spent time doing the work that they should have done for homework. For those who did complete their homework in biology (lab analysis questions on notebook p. 15/16,) then students decorated their notebook covers. I also handed back students' final exams and question packets. Glue them on nb p. 17-18.

If you were absent, be sure that I check your "look at your cells" lab and your summary on nb p. 9/11.

For homework, review your notes and your final exams, especially the ACT questions.

In AP bio, I checked the notes that students took on sections 25.2-25.3. Then students created a chart of derived characters.

For homework, review your notes!

Friday, January 21, 2011

Repeat of yesterday!

Since today was a half day, I saw periods 5, 6, and 8. We did the same thing as yesterday, so check yesterday's blog post.

Thursday, January 20, 2011

ODP Quizzes, Cell Labs

Today in AP Bio we took our open note ODP quizzes and then notes on Pbylogenetic Trees, explained (notebook p. 14.)

For homework, read concept 25.2-25.3 (pp. 495-499) and take notes.

In regular bio, we did the "Look at your Cells Lab.". See Ms. Adams to make it up on Wed. or Thurs. after school.

For homework, answer the analysis questions on NB p. 15-16.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Notes, notes, notes, and notes

Today in regular bio, I checked for people's numbered pages in their notebooks.  (See me to get your homework points!)  Update your Table of Contents on p. 1.  Then we took notes on Cell Organelle Structure & Function (on notebook pp. 9 and 11.)  Finally, we had a little bit of time to work on decorating the covers of our notebooks.

For homework: Write a summary of your notes on notebook p. 11.

In AP bio, Greg did his Annelida presentation, so take notes on that (see Table of Contents for page numbers.)  Also, we finished the Cell Reproduction notes that we'd started yesterday.

For homework, review your notes.  Also, be sure to bring your first semester notebook tomorrow because we'll be doing the open-note quizzes over Platyhelminthes, Cnidaria, Mollusca, and Nematoda.

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

New Semester!

Today is the first day of the new semester and I am so excited to start fresh with everyone with A's!

In biology, I checked for students' new notebooks, so if you were absent, make sure I check for your new notebook.  You get 10 points for having it on time!  You should also complete the writing prompt on notebook p. 6 titled "Reflections on Respect, Responsibility, Integrity, and Advocacy."  See Ms. Adams for the questions.

I also showed students their final grades.  See me for that.

For homework, number all of the pages of your notebook.  For extra credit, bring boxes of tissue by Thursday (5 points for each box, maximum of 4.)

In AP biology, I returned the final exams and we went over the scoring guides for the essays.  Then we started the notes on Reproduction.  For homework, review your notes and write a summary.

Friday, January 14, 2011

Final Exams, Get New Notebooks!

The week of Jan. 11-14 were final exams for all classes.

You also should get a new notebook for second semester.  If you are in AVID, it should be a spiral with 3 holes punched that you can put in your binder.  If you are not in AVID, it should be a composition notebook with 100 pages.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

My Version of the Study Guide, Nematode Presentation

Today in biology, students finished up their "Make My Own Study Guides" on NB pp. 112-???.  When they were done, they checked in with me to receive their points and then receive the study guide that I created that is specifically aligned to the final exam.  (Please see Ms. Adams to do so.)

Also, I gave back the questions for the ACT Practice test that was given on 11/30 and that I gave the ScanTrons back on Monday.  Use this to study for the 33 ACT questions.

The final exam will be 100 questions (67 based on the notebook and study guide and 33 ACT style questions--6 passages.)

For homework, finish the Study Guide that I gave you for tomorrow!

Today in AP biology, Kristi and Kevin gave their Nematoda presentation.  Get the notes and handouts from them.

For homework, write at least 15 questions for your create-your-own study guide.

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Graphing 2.0/ Mitosis Lab

Wed. January 5, 2011


AP Biology:

In class today we did Lab 3: Part A Sides 1-4: Alliuim (Onion) and 5-8: white fish blastula.

We also did analysis questions 1 & 2 today in class.

For homework write 15 questions for your create-your own study guide.


Biology:

On today's agenda we did graphing 2.0 and continued on with the study guide by answering the questions.

Today's Objective involved the SWBAT creating their own study guides for the final exam.

For homework you must answer at least 20 of your study guide questions.

Tuesday, January 4, 2011

Create Your Own Study Guide, Mitosis Microscope Lab

Today in biology, students continued working on their "Make My Own Study Guide" on notebook pp. 112-???  By the end of the day, you should have 25 questions.  I checked students' Carrot Labs (NB pp. 81-85) as well, so have Ms. Adams check those upon your return. 

For homework, answer at least ten of your study guide questions.

In AP biology, you should get a handout called "ID the IPMAT" from the Week 19 folder in the Document Crate.  Then we worked on finding and drawing the phases of the cell cycle in onion and whitefish blastula slides.  Plan on staying after school on Wednesday to make up the lab.  Also, turn in the worksheets for the Cnidaria and Platyhelminthes presentations.  (Brandon's and Alexis' presentations.)

For homework, finish the ID the IPMAT worksheet.

Monday, January 3, 2011

Welcome back!

Today was the first day back after winter break!  Happy New Year everyone!

Today in biology, I posted students' second quarter grades.  Then they used this information and the "Planning for the end of the Semester" sheet (get it from the Week 19 folder in the document crate) to make goals for the final.  I also handed back a bunch of papers, so please check to see if yours are in the returned work box with your period # on it.

Ms. Adams did a brief presentation called "Reflecting & Planning" that you should take notes on in the notebook on p. 111.  See Ms. Adams to see her version of the notes.

Finally, begin your "Make Your Own Study Guide" on notebook p. 112.  See Ms. Adams for information on how to set this up.

Homework: Write at least fifteen unique study guide questions for tomorrow!


Today in AP biology, we did much the same thing as in regular biology, so see above.  The only difference is that tomorrow we will be doing the Mitosis Lab #3, so review your lab handout pp. 39-34 for tomorrow.  Also, you will turn in your Cnidaria and Platyhelminthes student handouts tomorrow and the quizzes will be on Thursday.