Life Science Class Summary 2/16/15

with Leigh Ann Yoder

Class Overview

After a brief introductory video and key concept review of microscopes, cells and cell parts, students rotated through stations learning about magnification and microscopes. At station 1 students had the opportunity to use hand held microscopes and magnifying glasses to examine various pieces of cloth and newsprint. At the second station students used a simple (or stereo) microscope to examine insects. At the third station they learned the proper parts and mechanics of a compound microscope as they examined a variety of slides. They also had the opportunity to view living organisms in a sample of stream water brought in by a fellow student. At the final station students completed section 1 of the Technology Lab: Build a Microscope found in the textbook pg 14. This final activity demonstrated the basic design concept of the compound microscope.

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Egg-sperimental Science

Next, students were properly prepared for their first project:  Egg-speriment with a Cell, found in their notebooks. As a class we reviewed the lab requirements, set up a timeline for completion, recorded data and began the project.  *Note - each student came home with a glass mason jar containing their egg soaking in vinegar. As I mentioned before, this project will require just a little parent involvement. Students should be measuring their egg daily and changing the liquid.

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Unforgettable Cells!

Finally, we were able to review each student's cell models, reinforcing the parts found within the two cell types. The creativity of the class was inspiring. We had everything from Lego models, to electronic models to edible models! All of Mosaic enjoyed eating some of the cells after lunch. Yummy!

I did inform the class that I felt if they were 7th grade or above it would be appropriate for them to memorize the cell parts. At the 6th grade level, they can certainly memorize if they like, but familiarity would be sufficient.

Homework

Mandatory:
Project:  Egg-speriment:  Follow class instructions and timeline. Record measurements each day and change your liquid as directed.  

Read Section 1.3 Chemical Compounds in Cells
Study Guide: Chemical Compounds in Cells
Compounds in Foods (pg. 30 of text)

Optional:
Online Activity pg. 26 of Textbook
Enrichment:  Modeling Cell Structures (found in your notebook enrichment section)