Monday 4/11

Journal:



Today we discussed the Genetic Variations assignment (see posts from last week) as a class then turned it in.

We then continued our discussion of unique genetic traits in organisms with this powerpoint and this notes outline.

HW:  none

Thursday 3/31

Journal:


  1. How do the large, flat teeth of a cow help it survive?
  2. What adaptive advantage do the stripes on a tiger provide?
  3. Why do wolves have large sharp teeth?
  4. Human beings walk upright.  What adaptive advantage does this provide?
  5. When a genetic trait allows a group of animals to be more likely to survive and reproduce, what happens to that trait?

Today I gave you some time in class to finish the Genetic Variations assignment (here is the worksheet and here are the handouts). Anything you still have left is homework.

Then we started going through slides of genetic variations in organisms and discussing whether or not they're advantageous. Here is the PPT I used and the notes outline. We only got through the first two [real] organisms. We'll finish the rest on Monday 4/11.

Have a good spring break!

HW:  anything left on Genetic Variations

Wednesday 3/30

Journal:

Fill out the chart (A-E moving left to right):


Today we finished the genetic variations assignment. You will need this worksheet and this folder of handouts that goes with it. It is due tomorrow for anyone that didn't finish in class.

HW:  anything left on genetic variations assignment

Tuesday 3/29

Journal:


  1. Watch the video about the frozen frogs and answer these questions:


  1. Why is it beneficial for the wood frog to become frozen during the winter?
  2. Why can the frog freeze and thaw but you cannot?
  3. What adaptations for protection from the cold do other animals in temperate regions have?

2. What is the difference between a chromosome, gene, and DNA?


Today I handed out new late/hall passes and then started an assignment on genetic mutations.

You will need this worksheet to record your answers and these handouts to help you fill them out (all the handouts are in one folder). We will finish tomorrow.

HW:  none

Monday 3/28

Journal:

1. What kinds of adaptations do organisms make?
2. What is the ultimate purpose of an organism's adaptations?

Today I collected your Adaptations of Birds, Survival Adaptations (movie notes), butterfly, and late/hall passes to finish off your term 3 grade. Then I called up students one at a time to collect any last-minute makeup work and discuss your final term 3 grade.

HW:  none

Friday 3/25

No journal today.

Today we did a writing activity about genetic changes in animals called a RAFT. Here is the worksheet. Come see me if you need help with the assignment.

HW:  anything left of RAFT due Monday 3/28

Thursday 3/24

Journal:

Why are bird beaks and feet so greatly varied?

Today we finished the Adaptations of Birds assignment (designing a bird) then shared the finished product with a group of classmates.

HW:  anything left of the bird assignment