Today in class we:
- Made corrections on Scientific Method Test
- Discussed science fair and science symposium opportunities
- (A3) Amazon Leaf Cutter video and discussion guide as well as Toxic Newt video

Due Thursday (optional)
- typed test corrections attached to original test
- (A3) complete a summary of the toxic newt research, write a hypothesis for the research, and describe the conclusion of the research project

Quiz Day

Today in class we took our Chapter 1 quiz on the scientific method, metric conversions, and proper microscope use.

Homework: Think about doing a science fair project! Although it is optional, it can boost your semester test grade by up to 50%! Bring three science fair ideas to class on Monday when Ms. Virkus returns.

Quiz Review

Today in class the students reviewed Chapter 1 material for the quiz on Thursday. The quiz will cover the following topics:

The Scientific Method
The Metric System
Microscopy

Students should now have all their labs back and class materials to study from, as well as sections 1-1, 1-2, and 1-4 in your textbooks.

Homework: Study for the quiz!

Interpreting Graphs and Tables

Today the students finished up their Metric and Microscopy labs. Afterwards, they examined and interpreted data presented in a variety of tables and graphs.

Homework: Review Chapter 1 and the topics we have covered so far this school year, and bring questions for Tuesday's review session. The quiz will be on Thursday the 21st, and will cover:
The Scientific Method
The Metric System
Proper Microscope Use

Finishing the Metric and Microscopy Lab

Today in class most of the students wrapped up their metric and microscopy labs, and got the opportunity to look at some interesting specimens. We examined our own hair, skin cells, the cells of an onion skin, and the organisms that live in pond water. This lab writeup is due Thursday the 14th in case you want to review your metric conversions before you hand it in.

Homework: Read Section 1-3 in your textbooks and be prepared to answer the Section Assessment questions at the end.

First part of the microscope lab

Today in class we discussed why scientists use the metric system, and began the measurement and microscopy lab. The students are now ready to start viewing specimens under the microscope next week.

Homework: Look over the rest of the lab exercise so you will be ready to complete the remaining lab activities on Tuesday.

Variables and designing an experiment

Today in class we discussed different types of variables (independent vs. dependent), and how to use them in designing an experiment. We did a worksheet in class that gave examples of experiments, and we identified the different types of variables as well as the control group. We finished up the worksheet by designing our own experiment to test a given hypothesis.

Homework: Read section 1-4, finish the Black Box lab writeup (with your additional knowledge of variables).

Review of Scientific Method and The Black Box Lab

At the start of class today we discussed the goals of science, the role of science in society, and examples of science we have heard or read about recently. We then moved on to defining some of the initial parts of the scientific method, such as observations, types of data, inferences, and predictions.

The majority of class was spent working on the Black Box lab. Remember that this lab packet should be completed for homework and turned in on Wednesday.