Life Science Class Summary 3/16/15

with Leigh Ann Yoder

DNA Keychains

It was a pleasure to have all of our students arrive early to make their DNA keychains. Hopefully you have seen them by now. If the students would like to make more the directions are here.

Chapter 1 Tests

I handed back the corrected Chapter 1 tests. Please review them with your student. Overall I was very pleased with the grades and level of work on our first test. I pointed out several areas where students can improve, and have identified how I can help them as well. Specific areas to discuss are (1) Reading the questions carefully, and (2) Attempting to answer all questions as partial credit is better than no credit. We will meet at 9:30 next week for an optional Chapter 2 review. The students indicated that the review session was very helpful in preparation.

DNA Strawberry Extraction

As a class we set up a simple experiment to extract the DNA from strawberries. It is a fun experiment that can be completed at home as well. It is very cool to see the DNA! I followed the instructions from this site, but substituted rubbing alcohol for the Rum. No - we could not drink our cocktail!

Multiplying by Dividing Lab

Students looked at prepared slides of onion root tip cells undergoing cell division. They were able to identify Interphase and all stages of Mitosis in the cells. Students had enough time to collect that data, but not enough to complete the analysis and conclusion portions. This is to be completed for homework.

Mitosis Flipbook

Finally, students are in the process of creating their Mitosis Flipbooks which clearly identify all the phases of the cell cycle. Most students finished drawing these in class and only need to assemble at home. If they did not finish drawing they should do so and bring to class next week. Here is a blank flipbook in case they need another copy. Here is a sample of a completed flipbook for them to follow.

The Cell Cycle

This week's reading was quite challenging and full of information. I spent about a 1/2 hour of our class time reviewing the Cell Cycle, including Mitosis, and DNA. I gave the students a mnemonic to help them remember the stages. Since they did not take notes, they should review below. This is expected to be memorized for the test.

RALPH - IPMAT (I peed on a MAT)

R - Replicate (DNA, Centrioles, Organelles) I - Interphase
A - Appear (spindle fibers and chromosomes) P - Prophase
L- Line Up (chromosomes in the center) M - Metaphase
P - Pull Apart (chromosomes begin to split) A - Anaphase
H - Half (cell begins to form two halves) T - Telephase

The last phase of the cell cycle is Cytokinesis when the cell separates into two daughter cells. Students should also remember that PMAT is the four stages of Mitosis.

Homework

Homework is significant this week, so please plan accordingly.  Remember - Optional Chapter 2 review at 9:30AM next week.

Mandatory:
Finish Multiplying by Dividing Lab (Analysis and Conclusion)
Finish Mitosis Flipbook (Bring in next week)
Read 2.4 Cancer and complete Study Workbook
Read Science and Society pg 68-69 of Text

Optional:
Online Activity pg. 66 of Text
Chapter 2 Review: Key Terms and Concepts and Connecting Concepts
Study Chapter 2 for test (Test will be given next week)