Monday
IB Biology - This is the final week to prepare our presentations.  We looked at the form that your classmates will be using to give you feedback.
 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJQg0w7Yh9eS13TJAnHzhZNEjqSWOeGRaHXuCYnjV4Q-AJGg/viewform?usp=sf_link  
You then watch an entertaining video from Hank Greene on giant single celled organisms:  
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szIcnSIlrDE
In this video you saw how Hank changed fancy terminology into funny common language so we could understand it better.
BUT the most important thing I need you to do is to BRING YOUR TEXTBOOK in for return tomorrow!  I know I posted it on Friday, but then they said they had to change the schedule and we now have to return them tomorrow.

Honors Biology - Today we prepared for the end!  We worked on the websites you are all responsible for, and we helped you with this by looking at the Google form that will be used by page visitors to your website.  This is the link to this form so please post this to your website: 
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAcNLQvUqXpiWFCCMVdfEhzKkPxY9O_yGzMgwRghqjjbf3kw/viewform?usp=sf_link 
If you are looking for the original posting of this project, I believe you can find it on week 34.  Make sure you have everything required!

One last thing!  I found this great video on healthy relationships.  You don't have to, but watch it if you have some time.  It tells you what to look out for: https://www.ted.com/talks/katie_hood_the_difference_between_healthy_and_unhealthy_love?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare 

Tuesday
IB Biology - Today we started the day with looking at a very good video that can help us all have healthier relationships.:  https://www.ted.com/talks/katie_hood_the_difference_between_healthy_and_unhealthy_love?utm_campaign=tedspread&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=tedcomshare 
​Next, you all began working on the final project.  Only a couple of days left before showtime!  In preparing, here's the link to the feedback form that your classmates will be using.: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeJQg0w7Yh9eS13TJAnHzhZNEjqSWOeGRaHXuCYnjV4Q-AJGg/viewform?usp=sf_link

Honors Biology - Today was all about getting your website properly cited.  The following resources should help a lot!  Remember, only 3 days left.
APA examples for...
How do you write a citation for a website? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrSRSgHCI_8
How do you cite an Image? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocElkTfFkTA
What does it look like in text? https://bowvalleycollege.libguides.com/apa-style/citation ​

Wednesday
IB Biology - So today we did a quick refresher today on family planning, you received my senior letter, and discussed our awards ceremony.  The ceremony starts at 5:30, most likely in the guidance center, with a light dinner, and at 6:15 will proceed to the theater for the actual award ceremony.  You should dress "nicely."  I will be wearing a suit, but you do not need to be formal.  Please look "nice."
The rest of the period you spent clarifying your presentation which will start first thing next week.

Honors Biology - Oh, another thing you must include in your website is the feedback form that will be required.  Here's the link to the form so you can place it on your page (or embed it if you like). https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfAcNLQvUqXpiWFCCMVdfEhzKkPxY9O_yGzMgwRghqjjbf3kw/viewform?usp=sf_link​ 

Thursday
IB Biology - Rehearsal, rehearsal, rehearsal.  Today is the first day in three weeks that we have had everyone in class!!! Woo Hoo!  This means that you have 2 days together to have your presentation ready to rock for next week(which is a short week).  Make sure you are ready.  If you need a specific day because of some prep you need to do, please let me know TODAY!!!

Honors Biology - Today was only a work day.  You should be near to being finished.  Tomorrow we'll check each others website for compatibility.  But the actual show begins next week and it's a short week.  ALSO, look at the opportunity below.

GUHSD Health Career Pathways Students, CHECK THIS OUT!!!
Looking to make a positive contribution through volunteering this summer?  Volunteer at with St. Paul’s Senior Services Center

Do you like to assist with seniors with activities? Are you comfortable with technology and can show seniors how to use their phone, apps and the internet? Do you know Spanish (our seniors would love to learn a few words and phrases)? Or maybe you’d like to greet people and help out at the front desk? Our El Cajon PACE location is currently seeking volunteers Monday thru Friday between the hours of 9am – 3pm.*

If you’d like to volunteer at St. Paul’s please complete an online application at www.StPaulSeniors.org. Click on “Donate” then “Volunteer” to access the application link. We will then reach out and connect with you. You may also contact Lisa Blalock, Volunteer Coordinator at 619-239-6900.

More about St. Paul’s Senior Services Center
St Paul’s Senior Services would love to have you join our volunteer team. We are a mission-driven, non-profit organization that is spiritually guided to help seniors lead enriched lives through excellent and innovative services. We envision a world where seniors have options as to where and how they live. Since 1960, the organization has been dedicated to serving the spiritual, physical, and social needs of the elderly, fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion consistent with personal and affordable preferences striving to be the most outstanding and innovative provider in California. Through independent, assisted living and skilled nursing communities as well as an intergenerational day care program and Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), St. Paul’s provides affordable, innovative and comprehensive programs in a non-denominational environment with great value placed on optimal independence at all stages of life. We have a reputation for providing high-quality care with dedicated and compassionate staff who care about seniors. Our communities and programs are centrally located near Hillcrest and Downtown with locations also in El Cajon and Chula Vista.

*Other locations and hours may be available.

“Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation’s compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain loving one another.” ~Erma Bombeck

​

Friday
IB Biology - 
Honors Biology - ​​

Monday
IB Biology - Today we looked at a weird biology video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ss2GDKudHs​) to get an idea of entertainment might look like for your final project, as well as to learn something new.    At this point you should probably have an outline of what you are doing. I'll be looking for that in class tomorrow if you will be in class.  If you are not in class due to testing, please try to keep up, but it's okay to have it on the backburner.

On another note, I was talking to my wife about you guys and how many of you I have known longer than any students in my teaching career!  I have known some of you for the last 6 years!  If you maintain a Facebook page, please "friend" me so I can follow you through college and beyond.

Honors Biology - Today we finished all of the many facts we need to know about HIV transmission and AIDS.  We then played a horrible (..ly funny) game of body fluid and body parts to drive home the idea of dangerous situation.

Tonight you should be working on outlining what you will cover in your community health project.  Each of the major points in your outline should become pages on your site.  That's your mission. AND on your site you should be using APA citation on your work.  Here's a website to help you with format, or really anything APA style: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/general_format.html 

Oh, do you have a student agreement form you haven't turned in?  I will start hunting people tomorrow

Tuesday
IB Biology - Today you continued to work on your final project after watching another bizarre biology video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ss2GDKudHs  Don't forget that as you work on your final project you need to be conscious that you are receiving 1/3 of your points.


Honors Biology - Today we continued our foray into STI's, and specifically HIV, by doing our "party" lab.  Some really important points you should walk away with are that abstinence is the only sure way to avoid an STI, antibodies are only produced at detectable levels until about 3 weeks, and how you can get tested for STIs.  Tonight I need you to test out your video making capabilities.  Make a short video about anything and place it on the front page of your website.  

Wednesday
IB Biology - Today was a rare day for this month, everyone was actually in class and not out taking a test!   Tomorrow we will all go back to missing many of your due to this test or that.  Hopefully you took the time I gave you to connect and coordinate with your partner.  At this point in time you should have a LOT.  Many of you are working on making it interactive for the audience, good idea.  Tonight, if you aren't testing tomorrow, spend a little time with your project.   That's all I have for you.  ...Another weird biology video tomorrow.

Honors Biology - Today we wrapped up our Sexual Health unit and I was super happy to see what you thought were the big "take aways" from the unit.  You were also able to ask your last round of questions.  I'll answer these on Friday, not tomorrow, and that is because tomorrow is a minimum day and your will be working on making sure your logistics work on your website.  Tomorrow you will play the role of student or expert and help each other out to make sure everyone can do the final project, so make sure you actually have your website, your tabs which outline your topic, and a video embedded in the landing page.  Oh, and make sure it is registered with me. See the Google Form from last week.

Thursday
IB Biology - Minimum Day! Today you watched strange mating rituals: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B3Uw24MA-4Q  All of these videos should be leading you towards making sure that your presentation is engaging and informative.  I will be looking for an outline tomorrow at the very minimum (due to testing).  PLease be ready to share a flow chart with me of your presentation.

​I would also like you to be aware that May is Mental Health Awareness month.  You, or someone you know, might be having a tough time right now, be sure to reach out to friends and family and share how you are feeling.  If you are a more private person know that there are many people who care about you even though it may not feel like it.  I know that I, for one, care about you.  If you still don't want to share with me or your family, there are other resources such as EachMindMatters.org, or National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8245), and you can text "EMM" to 741741 for free counseling.

Honors Biology - Minimum Day! Today we worked on the logistical aspects of making a website. The following is what we found out:  Some issues in embedding videos is that you need to put the video into your google drive.  Another issue is putting your tabs (an outline) that makes sense in that it walks a visitor through a logical progression that's easy to understand.  Lastly, be sure you send me the website link on the google form from last week.  Many of you have sent me your editing URL.  To give me the right URL you must first publish your site and then click the "chain link" icon.  The URL this gives you will be the one I need, not one that ends with "/edit". 
Tomorrow I want you to come prepared to talk about website design, so I have included an article that describes the qualities of good website design: https://shortiedesigns.com/blog/10-top-principles-effective-web-design/  I also found an articel about the best websites on the net.  These are all commercial sites so they won't have the same focus as you, but you should be able to identify some ideas to help you with your site.  We'll discuss this tomorrow.  https://www.websitebuilderexpert.com/designing-websites/awesome-home-page-design-layouts/   
I would also like you to be aware that May is Mental Health Awareness month.  You, or someone you know, might be having a tough time right now, be sure to reach out to friends and family and share how you are feeling.  If you are a more private person know that there are many people who care about you even though it may not feel like it.  I know that I, for one, care about you.  If you still don't want to share with me or your family, there are other resources such as EachMindMatters.org, or National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8245), and you can text "EMM" to 741741 for free counseling.

Friday
IB Biology - After watching our next weird video on biology: Bioweapons: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzQYevmtVAg, I then checked three thing: 1) that you are coming to the graduation ceremony, 2) that your name is spelled properly, and 3) that your project is pretty much done as far as data collection.  The massive amount of testing is almost done.  Hang in there and before you know it, you'll be through.

One more thing, since it's mental health awareness month check out this article on causes and ways to help with stress.  Check it out.  https://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/FFF-Guide/Helping-Teenagers-With-Stress-066.aspx 

Honors Biology - ​Today we started by answering the last of the sexual education questions.  Then we wrote a closing statement to ourselves.  Lastly, you were given time top work on your websites.  Please make sure that you have an outline (tabs), an exciting enticing home page that will draw, and this weekend put your scripts together to make videos. 

Volunteer Opportunity: We are working on a project to better understand the types of trash that get into our local waterways. We have been collecting trash from the creek system and we will need volunteer help sorting this trash into categories and then weighing it and measuring it by category. The data collected will be used to help an engineering firm design a real-world trash capture device to stop trash before it reaches the San Diego River.
 
If this is something that you are interested in, please contact the person listed below. 
Ally Welborn
Community Engagement Manager
The San Diego River Park Foundation
ally@sandiegoriver.org | (619) 297-7380 ext:109

 

Monday
IB Biology - Today we are going to take a new approach to our review.  Today I want you to use the following list of vocabulary, and after watching the videos and using the simulations you should be able to describe the relationships between these topics.  

Use these terms/concepts:
Differences in DNA storage in prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
Structure of nucleic acids (page 106)
Types of nitrogenous bases. (AT and GC)
Nucleosomes and histones (page 148)
Semiconservative replication
Role of hydrogen bonds
Protein synthesis
Transcription
Translation
Helicase
Primase
mRNA polymerase
mRNA
Post transcription modification
Small and Large ribosomal subunits
Codons
Anticodons
tRNA
Amino acid
Protein folding (1-chain, 2-helix or pleat, 3-fold, 4-combine)
Protein.

This Should help with DNA structure and replication
https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/basics/builddna/ 

This will help demonstrate protein synthesis:
https://sepuplhs.org/high/sgi/teachers/genetics_act16_sim.html

Playing this will help with HOW protein synthesis happens: 
 https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/basics/transcribe/
What amino acids is the final protein built from?

BY WEDNESDAY your review packet is due.  Please don't stress.  I have all of the marking sheets if you would like to go over any of those questions with me.  Lastly, don't forget that when you get to paper 3 you only select one option.  You may want to try two to see what is easier for you, but you only need to complete one and we suggest doing the physio section.
​
Honors Biology - Today we tried to get caught up on our sexual education lessons, but it didn't work.  So today we spoke about the different contraceptive devices that people use to plan their families, but we didn't really discuss all of the pros and cons.  We will finish this tomorrow, but tonight on the left side of your entry I would like you to make a list reasons why you would say no to sex, especially at this age.  You should have at least three reasons and a brief explanation for each.

Tuesday
IB Biology - ...And today is when it all began!   Testing, testing, testing for the next three weeks.  I wish you all well, but we will continue to move ahead in biology in a much lower stress state towards our final projects.  Now, today we spent with some of the last preparation for the IB Biology exam by getting into groups and allowing you to discuss and complete papers 1-3.  This is all due tomorrow.  Oh, and don't forget that you can use a calculator for papers 2 and 3, but not for paper 1.

Next, I need you to RSVP for our event on the 22nd of May.  All you need to do is to fill out this form for your family. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSct7PLHJNKHtgfN1KAkNnZEPthLl9hyHqj3Bj3cOs5OkRkq5g/viewform?usp=sf_link  

Don't forget that the packet will be turned in tomorrow, completed at the beginning of class.

One last thing, I found this good video on protein synthesis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2BwWavExcFI
Just in case you want to take one last look at our topic yesterday.


Honors Biology - So today we today we spent our time reviewing some anatomy of the male female reproductive system.  We then looked at your homework responses about why it's most appropriate to say no to sex right now.  Lastly, we looked at all of the things to consider if you were to get pregnant or get someone pregnant.  Tonight I want you to look at the following details on the public health project that will be your final project of the year.  As you look at the details, please also know that you will be doing this on your own.  Once you are done going through the criteria, you should start thinking about what public health topics you might want to attack.

​Public Health Project
This year you have studied…

• How we get sick and stay healthy,
• The role of genetics in how our bodies function,
• How all organisms can evolve through their interactions with the environment,
• And lastly, how all of the components (biotic and abiotic) in an ecosystem affect one another.

You have also spent this year learning...

• How to test hypotheses
• How to collect data,
• How to process and analyze data,
• And to be critical of the validity of data.

It is now time for you to put your knowledge and skills in a final project for the betterment of everyone, just like all good scientists should do.  This means that in the next 2 weeks you will be creating a website that is designed to inform people about a health topic that interests you.

Here are the criteria to score a passing THREE out of FIVE point on the rubric:

• It must be a website that is self explanatory and easy to understand.
• You must incorporate at least 1 video that you have produced.
• Your topic must be one which people have concerns about, but can be ANYTHING public health related.
• You should have at least two connections to the topics we have studied.
• You should have a minimum of one set of data that enhances or supports your topic.
• Includes a “Call to Action”
• It should provide help for those who may be dealing with this topic, by providing links to more information.
• You should include appropriate citations to your sources.

You will earn a FOUR on your project if it qualifies as a three, but also has…

• All original writing
• There are no grammatical errors with your writing.
• You chose to make more than one video to enhance your site.
• Your video(s) are less than 2 minutes yet clear and to the point.
• You have included your source citations in APA format.

You will earn a FIVE if your project is like a four, but also has…

• Include multiple sets of concise data to support EACH of your talking points
• Your website is easy to use (intuitive) and engaging to visit.
• Something of your choosing that I haven’t thought of, but adds “amazingness.”

You will earn a TWO or LESS on your project if it does not qualify as a three.   ...but you’re not going there!

Some possible topics could be: Makeup hygiene, depression, measles and immunization, sleep, mental illness, diet, energy drinks, vaping, bacteria from animals, sun exposure, child care, etc.

Wednesday
IB Biology - Tomorrow is a big day for you.  You should have had a fun day of playing kahoot with the review material.  While you may want to lightly review some material tonight, I would suggest you eat a good meal and get to bed early.  The learning is done.  Do NOT forget that you can use a calculator on papers 2 and 3 for the IB Bio exam so be sure to bring one!  Be sure to fill in all question boxes, pay attention to the number of marks for a question, and even if you don't know an answer, put down an idea using some of your concepts.

Oh, and did you RSVP like I asked you to yesterday?

Starting tomorrow, for those of you not taking the test, I want you to start thinking about your final project.  Just think about it.  We'll get moving on it tomorrow if you are here.  The following are the requirements: 
You may choose ANY biology related topic that we have not studied this year. Here are some examples of what you could pick:  Astrobiology, extremophiles, a favorite organism, connect two seemingly unrelated species, biological weapons, disease spread, seed dispersal, neurological disorders, human cloning, flower adaptations, vision, aging, fungi, Etc.  Really, there is nothing that you can’t chose as long as you can do the following with the topic.

Points will be scored in three areas:
Your topic/solution (Score of 1-5)
Including of 6 topics that we have studied this year.
Data
Ethical Issues
An assessment of connected risks
The valuation (economic impact)
Is there a stance we should take?
Is there any opposition to change?
Daily work points (Score of 1-5)
    You are not on your phone
    You are clarifying/tightening connections of topics
    You practice presenting
    You are watching videos on the topic
    You are discussing (the topic)
    You are productive in another way
Entertainment Value (Score of 1-5)
Some examples could be the incorporation of an original song and or dance,
the serving of food,
a FUN game,
use of special effects,
how your topic has affected culture in a very unscientific way,
or other ideas that are not scientific but are ENTERTAINING!

Honors Biology - So today we have to do some set up for tomorrow when I have a substitute.  First off, I will need you to enroll for the online quiz you will take tomorrow with your substitute.  
If you are in Period 3, enroll with this link: www.innerorbit.com/schools/student.php?ac=16906-QUACKS
If you are in Period 5, enroll with this link: www.innerorbit.com/schools/student.php?ac=16906-TURTLE

Now that you are enrolled in the appropriate class, let's move on.  Tomorrow you will be assigned a quiz that you will not need to prepare for. I'm only looking to see what you know and nothing more, so explain yourself well and relax.  You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.


Thursday
IB Biology - Today I want you to commit to a topic and a partner (If you choose to have one) for your final project (see yesterday's post).  Please make sure to review the criteria that you should have looked at last night and then commit to me that topic, and your partner, on this form:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd3R56HDwa7t49VUU3vkTdEg6ppgpolBZnANND-ABwMUIei_A/viewform?usp=sf_link​ 

Your sole job today is to find a partner (if you want one), select a topic that fits our criteria, and to start the process of working.  1/3 of your grade comes from your classwork.  I am leaving instructions with the sub to mark down those not working so keep it going, there is LOTS to do!  

Honors Biology - Today you will be doing a couple of things online and then getting some work done for your final project.  The first thing I need you to do is make sure you are enrolled in InnerOrbit.  You should have done this yesterday, so look back there if you need, but you should already be in.  Just go to this site and sign in.  The quiz will start automatically: https://www.innerorbit.com/accounts/login.php?func=logout 
​As soon as you are done, please go to the survey that the district needs you to take. 

The following is a survey to ask you about your experience in this class. It doesn't matter if you are Medical Pathway or not, everyone must complete this.  Med Pathway survey: Biology and Community Health

Now that you have completed your quiz and survey, I need you to start the process of creating your final project.  If you look at Tuesday's post you will find the criteria.  You will be creating a unique website (google sites, or other), you will also need to create at least one video (adobe spark, or other) that will allow your site to educate people on your topic.  Before today is out, you should decide on a topics, and start a site where you can build.  Send me a link to your website using this form:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdeRE0ivikDzmV4ucduW6Bfc_iQhcJEWyLiBZ0k4loaQtLGQg/viewform?usp=sf_link 


Friday
IB Biology - I BLEW IT!  I totally failed to fill in this entry from last week!
Honors Biology - ​...see above.

Monday
IB Biology - So the first thing that we did today was to look at the data from our field trip. This data has been posted below as a downloadable flyer.  Your job, by Friday (it is due when you walk in), is to take 3 sets of the data you and your classmates collected, and to then find outside data on how these factors affect human health to draw a conclusion about how human risk can change just between the morning and the afternoon at La Jolla Shores. So an example would be if you looked at the dog data and then looked up actual dog bite data you could create a calculation that will give us an idea of the risk involved. You then have a data driven baseline to provide evidence of risk.  Lastly, do this with your other lines of data to create a composite risk for La Jolla Shores in the morning vs the afternoon. Do this and you should receive max points!

Today you also received the 2017 IB Biology Exam.  This will be given to every student as a review guide in preparation for the test next week.  Regardless of whether you are taking the test or not, we're all doing it.  By Wednesday of next week we will turn them in and the score you receive will go to replace any of your older tests you were not happy with.  You have everything to gain and nothing to lose!  I would spend about 1 hour going through these 3 papers and answering the easier stuff.

Lastly, you made it really clear that you all want a review of biochemistry.  We started that today by not just looking at the "facts", but also the "Why" behind why the facts are true.  The following is a list of the topics we dug through.  
CHNOPS
Small molecules - CO2, O2, H2O
Properties of water
  Polarity
  Hydrogen bonds
  High heat capacity - sweat
  adhesion/cohesion
  diffusion/osmosis
  As a carrier molecule in blood
  As a solvent

As an added bonus I found this site that links to many simulations and resources related to these topics.
http://www.bio-alive.com/animations/biochemistry.htm

Honors Biology - This year you have learned about so many things: 
​  Cells - structure and interaction - Getting sick, and staying healthy.
  Genes - Programing for structure - Disease can be passed through genes, DMD.
  Evolution - How structure changes - Organisms change over time, bacterial resistance.
 Ecology - How these structures interact and influence each other - Ecosystems are complex, like the serengeti.
And now you are moving into the part of the year where we use this knowledge to talk about:
  Community Health 
And your first task is to examine this through sexual health.
We started with our ground rules today as well as some terms that can be confusing.
We ended with what you think will be covered because they are concerns:
  STI's,
  How to prevent infections and/or pregnancy,
  What choices do we have in relationships?,
  How do we know what a good relationship is?
  And others

Tonight I want you to move to the left page of your notebook and Identify at least 2 trusted adults (probably your parents) who can you can discuss our topics with each day.  You should list their name, your relationship to them, and a short reason (2-3 sentences) of why you trust them with these sensitive topics.

I KNOW THIS IS AN ODD POSTING, but if you have any aspiration of becoming a commercial pilot, there is an interesting program this summer to get you through the first step which is ground school.  Talk to me if you have any interest.

Tuesday
IB Biology - So today we took the next step in the chemistry "circus"  going from simple hydrocarbons to macromolecules.  You should now have an association with each type of macromolecule and what is does because of its' structure.  Obviously I want you to continue working through the 2017 packet, but if you want to reinforce the topics from today check out pages 64-66, 74, 76-77 and page 83 to look at risk factors.  It won't take long, just refresh the memory. 

Oh, and remember that I am still available anytime from lunch onward to help on any topic, but please email or talk to me to let me know you are coming and what you want help with.

Honors Biology - Today you looked at the 3 important components to healthy relationships, passion, intimacy, and commitment.  We then made a list of the qualities we have observed in healthy relationships and you rated yourself as to if you exhibit these in your relationships. 
Tonight you will need to find one friend and one adults to rate you on those same qualities and then SIGN below their ratings.  Look at how they rated you.  If they were honest, it may not match how you see yourself, but regardless of their ratings, I want you to write a paragraph about how can you improve your relationships.  If you are not honest with yourself, this won't help you so take your time and really think about it.  This should all be on the left page below your ratings.

Wednesday
IB Biology - So today you had a great guest speaker. I hope her talk was helpful as you head off towards college.  Please don't forget we have a few things "cooking" right now.  Tonight continue on your risk assessment from the beach data which is due on Friday, and also work on your 2017 IB exam.  BTW there are two graphs that really copied poorly on this exam.  I will ignore those that are unclear.  You should probably be close to getting through at least one of your papers.  By Friday/weekend you should be chugging through 2 papers, and then early next week we'll finish up the work.

Honors Biology - Today you were able to be inspired by Jen Cochran.  Tomorrow we will pick up right where we left off on our sexual education program.  There really isn't anything you can do tonight except to think about what he characteristics of bad relationships.  This will be our starting topic tomorrow.  Hey, check out this volunteering opportunity.

Volunteer Opportunity: Clean Water Learning Lab at America on Main St.
 
Date: Saturday, May 18th
Time: Students can choose from three shifts:

• 1:30pm-3:30pm
• 4:00pm-7:00pm
• 6:30pm-9:30pm

Location: Downtown El Cajon on Main Street between Magnolia Ave & Avocado Ave
Details: Educate your community about water pollution at a fun and engaging activity!  No experience necessary.  Training provided.  Community service hours can be verified.
How to Sign Up: Please contact Marina Varano at marina@sandiegoriver.org or (619) 297-7380 to sign up to help!  You will be added to our RSVP list and sent more details about where to meet and how to prepare.

Thursday
IB Biology - So today we looked at how our performers (water, macromolecules, etc.) perform!  This means we discussed metabolism, metabolic pathways (cyclical vs. linear), hydrolysis and condensation reactions, enzymes and competitive and non-competitive inhibition, and lastly end product inhibition (feedback).  You told me that cyclical pathways are like jugglers and linear pathways are like the tightrope walkers, but what about the rest of these concepts?  Please come with a sheet to hand in that describes what the rest of the terms would be at the circus and why. It is also a wise idea, since we were looking at enzymes today, to be familiar with the 6 proteins that are found on page 94. 
Please also remember that your beach risk assessment is due tomorrow.  1 copy for you and your partner.

Honors Biology - Today we were able to start the conversation around your questions from the previous meeting and then to launch into our current lesson about poor relationships.  We looked at consent in "Yes means Yes" and started to look at those behaviors that we see in poor or abusive relationships.  Because we didn't finish, there is actually no homework.  SO......maybe consider looking in your closet for some adult size clothes of yours or your parents that could be good for our NHS community service project?

Friday
IB Biology - Today we continued our review by looking at how our chemical "players" interacted through metabolic pathways.  So we started the week looking at atoms, then looked at water, then macromolecules, then processes, and finally the metabolic pathways of cellular respiration and photosynthesis.  I was super excited to see so many people feeling more comfortable seeing all of this for the second time! Hopefully you were all able to see a number of simple chemical transformations (Redox, phosphorylation, decarboxylation, etc.) make up these massive paths. The videos that I asked you to analyze are below.  This weekend I want you to spend some serious time with your 2017 test that is due on Wednesday.  
Cell Respiration​
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7J4LXs-oDCU
Photosynthesis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PiAUPg4UrrE
​Oh, and since we didn't get as much discussion about photosynthesis I've included a game you could play to refresh your memory: https://biomanbio.com/HTML5GamesandLabs/PhotoRespgames/photoresp.html


Honors Biology - ​So at this point we have looked at the characteristics of good relationships, and between yesterday and today examined all the nightmares of bad relationships.  But we want you all to have great relationships and to eventually have kids, which requires family planning, so we started the conversation on a new entry about contraception!   This weekend I want you to return to the "Yes means Yes" entry and summarize the following: How consent is essential to any relationship,
What could be warning signs of relational abuse,
and how the digital media (sexting, etc.) can be problematic for relationships and legally. 
​3 points should be covered and it should be placed on the left side of this entry.

Monday
IB Biology -  Today you were able to play a review Kahoot.  You took some notes on yourself.  These notes along with the review of your tests this last weekend should give you a good start to compile info on yourself for practice for the test.  I'll have your review notebooks tomorrow.  Tonight you should go through and review chapters 1-3 which is what you mostly saw today.  If  haven't seen you today, I still want you to review these chapters.  I have decided that those not taking the AP or IB exam will be taking an exam as well so everyone needs to know this info.
​
​
Honors Biology- Today we watched a short video and decided to pursue that question.
Pick a tree species
Do the tree simulator - https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ix7rO0xfhtaVD7j4pce3sOiF448tXOgBv_FiELLRTX8/edit
So how much Carbon can a tree store?
What about a tree’s lifetime?  
Where does the carbon go? 
Now that you have started to play with these numbers, I want you to "attack" the following question/s.  #1 is it feasible to have everyone plant a tree every day.  What is the whole world planted a tree? You must show me some type of calculation to support your stance.  To help you with this remember that estimates say that 80,000,000,000,000 pounds of CO2 are pumped into the atmosphere yearly.  

Tuesday
IB Biology - Today we got the official study guide for IB!!!  Using the note you took from the Kahoot from yesterday and the test review you did over the weekend and you high-lighted those areas you have weakness in.  Tonight I want you to review the sections for chapters 4-6 and then spend a little bit of time going through the command terms.  Try this Command Terms Quizlet:2-3 times https://quizlet.com/2498065/ib-biology-command-terms-flash-cards/

Honors Biology - See yesterday for details.

Wednesday
IB Biology - Today we started to attack a previous IB test.  By tomorrow we'll be assessing all of your weaknesses and this will dictate the review that happens after the spring break.  Tonight, I want you to review chapters 7-9 and look at the woord roots I've posted.  Go through them, and possibly print them.
https://www.biologyjunction.com/prefixes%20and%20suffixes.pdf ​ 

Honors Biology - Today we started by looking at the big question we had laid out last time in class of whether or not planting a tree every day would solve our issue.  Then we investigated other ideas that might help us with this climate change issue, after we created a number of ways to evaluate sources/ideas. On Friday you will be having a sub, and you will have an assessment which will ask you to evaluate climate change solutions so be sure to take good notes from your partners.  Of course you can do as much research on your own between now and then.  Remember, you want data to back up your ideas.
https://davidsuzuki.org/what-you-can-do/top-10-ways-can-stop-climate-change/?nabe=5392362493968384:0&utm_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F
https://www.nrdc.org/stories/how-you-can-help-fight-climate-change
https://www.nrdc.org/stories/how-you-can-stop-global-warming
https://www.chevron.com/corporate-responsibility/climate-change
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/10-solutions-for-climate-change/
https://www.popsci.com/how-to-stop-climate-change#page-5 ​

One of your classmates found this really great website that might help: https://whatsyourimpact.org/greenhouse-gases/carbon-dioxide-emissions

Thursday
IB Biology - You started today by first responding to the health pathway survey for graduates:   Health Pathways Graduate Survey 
Next you got all of the information on our field trip.  Yes, it's tomorrow.  We leave at 7am and return at 2pm.
   Dress in layers
   Be ready for light rain
​   Towel
   Bring Food
   A backpack will be really helpful
   I will bring all of the probeware
   ...???? Please bring a chromebook!

Next, you spent time with the IB exam from last year.  You continued to mark up your review document.  You may have even spent some time with word roots, etc. (see yesterday's post).  At this point you should be pretty solid about what you "fear" the most from the test. 
Lastly, TONIGHT, please click the following link and complete the form so that I can prepare you for the final review session when we return after break.  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfnEHcDenT7U2srQtsBwc0v3cy2wW09PdgudTF-doEex2WeoQ/viewform?usp=sf_link 

OH, the review process is taking place at the district office as we speak for gold or silver completer status!  I asked if the applications were looking good and I was told they all look like it!  ...know that verification will happen over break, but I know you guys are all legit!

Honors Biology - See yesterday.  If you want a sneak peek at what you'll be asked to do tomorrow, feel free to look ahead to Friday's instructions.  One of your classmates found this really great website that might help: https://whatsyourimpact.org/greenhouse-gases/carbon-dioxide-emissions

Friday
IB Biology - Today we are off to our risk assessment.  The data we collect today will be analyzed by you when we return and will consist of measurements from the morning and similar ones in the afternoon.

OH, If you have not completed the survey link from last night, PLEASE be sure to do that today as I will be using this over break to prepare you for your upcoming exam session.  Last year was the best completion rate of AP/IB Bio tests the school has ever had (matching worldwide pass rates), and I think this year it might even be better.

Have a restful and safe break.

Honors Biology - ​Today you guys will have this one period to do just one task: Give me a solution to climate change.  EASY, right?!   Well, everything we have done this week (and the previous weeks) have prepared you for this work.  Today you will have open access to your computers (obviously) and to the previous work that is in your notebook.  In addition, one of your classmates found this really great website that might help: https://whatsyourimpact.org/greenhouse-gases/carbon-dioxide-emissions  What you don't get access to is each other.

WHAT YOU WILL TURN IN (written on a piece of paper):
You will start by giving me brief but complete solution to sequestering (locking in back up) excess CO2.(I think it was clear that planting trees can't really do it all)  This could mean taking action, or stopping action, or both.

Next, be sure that you have DATA that supports your claim.  If any math is required (probably) then you should clearly show that on your paper.

Lastly, you will tell us why your solution makes the most sense, which probably means describing how the math makes sense.

​
OVER THE BREAK: Earth Day coming!  This is one of my favorite days of the year.  Every year I celebrate it down at Balboa Park in one of the world's largest celebrations in the country.  There are MANY organizations that showcase their ideas on recycling, conservation, animal rescue, etc. ...and there are also a chunk of "interesting" people to watch.   But this celebration is on April 28th from 10am-5pm, not on the 22nd which is the official day!!!   Take selfies around the celebration and send them to me and I'll get you extra credit, find me and I'll double it, bring me food and I ....okay, I gotta stop there.  Hope to see you there.  Here's a website that has details:  http://www.earthdayweb.org/EarthFair.html 

Monday
IB Biology - SO today you first got to hear about all of the upcoming science fun such as the Field Trip, Our End of Year Celebration, and our CUSTOM medallions.  Hey, just know that if none of you submit designs, we will have a regular stock medallion (boring)!  Then we looked at the mesocosm labs that have been running for about a month now.  Your job is to now go and write up your results.  You should have the Introduction, the purpose, the hypothesis, your data, and your conclusion.  If you choose to go more in depth for extra credit and get into the IA format with this, that's fine, but that is optional and it must be your original work (no sharing).  The IA format for extra credit is due next Monday, but the regular assignment is due on Wednesday.
Lastly, we discussed your environmental impact project for your plant.  I have listed everything needed a couple weeks ago, but now we are adding man's impact and how to mitigate any damage that may be caused.  Here's a big list: Plant tissue data and pictures (xylem, phloem, meristem, root, stem, leaf, and stomates),  You should have detailed information of the ecosystem, the food web, the keystone species of this food web, The cycling of energy in this system, the cycling of CHNOPS (specifically Carbon), The "greenhouse" affect, and climate change.  BE SURE THAT ALL CLAIMS ARE BACKED BY YOUR DATA OR CITATION TO THE RESEARCH YOU FOUND  THE DATA IN.

Honors Biology - Today we started with a discussion of the simulation models we did on Friday.  Next we found that it still didn't account for the populations.  But we started to put together the idea that plants are the foundation of any ecosystem.  Next I showed you plant data, and then finally fire data.  WOW!  I think we finally made it to the bottom of this mystery!  Tonight, if I didn't tell you in class, is to find out what a keystone species is and find and example and explain its importance to an ecosystem.  This should be placed on the left hand side of the entry we started today.

Tuesday
IB Biology - Today was a weird day with so many people out for the Convention.  Regardless, we discussed some clarifying ideas about greenhouse gases as well as 2nd law of thermodynamics (entropy) and how these apply to ecosystems.  Tomorrow there will be two things that we will get done before allowing you to work.  1) you will turn in your group mesocosm write up as described yesterday, and 2) We will be going over the chi-squared test from last week.  Sooooo, what should you do tonight?  Mesocosm write up and continue to look for human impacts to your environment.

Honors Biology - Today was a touch weird in that we were missing students due to convention.  But we reviewed what happened on the Serengeti, and then went on to describe 5-6 big ideas that we now understand.  Each of you created a table where we had a picture, a concept, and an example of what you learned.  You should first complete this table, and yes, the pictures must have color.  Lastly, you should then go to the left side of our entry and list at least 3 positive impacts of humans on the environment, and at least 3 negative effects.  Be very specific, don't just talk in generalities.  For example, I found an example online of 3 men who were charged with dumping chemicals into the river nearby.  This was in Singapore.  Here's a website you could get three examples of "good" people trying to help the environment: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2008/jan/05/activists.ethicalliving 

Wednesday
IB Biology - Today we only spent our time reviewing the concept of the chi-square test and then working on your environmental impact report.  A question was asked today about whether or not this report would constitute your final assessment for the unit or would there be a sit-down sort of test.  Right now I am leaning on the idea that this is you exam, but I will be a stickler about criteria, specificity (details), citations, and use of data.  Don't try and be a slacker about this.  Review multiple sources on your research as one way I will assess your work will be by search certain claims you make. 
​Lastly, tomorrow you will be given time for submissions of your completer application.  You must also fill in my applications as well.  Come with any data you might need on job shadows, internships, volunteer hours, CPR certification, etc.

Honors Biology - Today we looked at your work from last night but then started a quick group project on keystone species.  This project will be placed on only one page (you will do this part tomorrow), but will include your keystone species, it's importance to the biome, Some data on the biome, where the keystone species is in the food web (energy transfer), Man's impact on this species, and the carrying capacity of the biome.  Come prepared tomorrow with all of your info as you will only have about 25 minutes to put it all together!

EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITY!!!!
Nursing Revealed – FLYER
Sunday, April 14, 2019
10:00 am – 2:00pm
 
San Diego State University – Adams Humanities Building (AH 2108)
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182

Nursing Revealed is a FREE event for local high school and community college students. The event is hosted by the SDSU Student Nurses Association. Attendees will: tour the SDSU campus the skills lab with mannequins, participate in interactive breakout sessions and learn about the SDSU School of Nursing admission requirements. Free lunch included! 


Thursday
IB Biology - Today you only had two jobs!  1) Complete all of the forms that are due for graduation from the medical pathway, and 2) Work on your final project on environmental impact which is due tomorrow.

Honors Biology - Today you put together your keystone species project.  It was fast and furious!   Tomorrow you will take an interim assessment of what you understand about ecology.  The same concepts that you  have been learning about will be tested by having you look at a graph and then speculating on the scenario using your knowledge.  Please make sure to go through your notebook and make sure you are clear about the content so you can use the proper terminology.  Do you know what carrying capacity means? The difference between a population, community, and ecosystem? Producers vs consumers? Population and biodiversity?  Growth, decay and stability in ecosystems?  What qualifies as a human impact?  You cannot use your notebooks on the test.

Friday
IB Biology - Today your turned in your report for the Environmental Projections for your Crop/Plant.  YOu have now been exposed to every topic under IB Biology!   Exciting in some ways, but now comes the clean up!  This is a time to look at what we know really well and what we need to brush up on.  We'll do this by creating a review of everything from the IB topics (1-11 and Option D) through the creation of a review guide.  Each of you will now complete a single sheet review that reminds us of the Chapter and Section, Understanding, Applications, Skills, Vocabulary, and Nature of Science from that section.  You can/should use the front and the back of the paper and know that it will eventually be run off with everyone else's as our primary review document.  In addition to your book, you should also use BioNinja, Bioknowledgy, and Mr. Green's sites as a way to consolidate things into only a couple pages.  You might also want to use those helpful educational YouTube channels like CrashCourse, Bozeman Science, and Khan Academy.  This is your only task over the next week so take a deep breath and get focused for your sake and your classmates, and they'll do the same!

Honors Biology - ​You guys are brilliant!  You have concluded the first part of our ecology unit and now we go into the next.  Today you did your initial assessment using various graphs and the initial look I took looks like you know a lot of stuff!  Next week we'll start looking at plants!  I know testing starts up next week, but know that this is all we will focus on, and most of that will be in class.  Enjoy your weekend!  Here's an interesting plant video in case you are interested: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sCepDFnY6l4

Extra Credit Opportunity: 
Nursing Revealed
Sunday, April 14, 2019
10:00 am – 2:00 pm
EVENT FLYER
 
San Diego State University – Adams Humanities Building (AH 2108)
5500 Campanile Drive
San Diego, CA 92182
 
Nursing Revealed is a FREE event for local high school and community college students. The event is hosted by the SDSU Student Nurses Association. Attendees will tour the SDSU campus the skills lab with mannequins, participate in interactive breakout sessions and learn about the SDSU School of Nursing admission requirements. Free lunch included! Students under 18 yrs. must attend with a parent/guardian. Register yourself at  https://sdsunursingrevealed.eventbrite.com.

Monday
IB Biology - SO today we were able to find our place in the project.  This week our goal is to incorporate the material from unit 4 into your Environmental Impact report.  While I will cover the general ideas of each chapter section, you should start the hunt for climate change data that you deem reliable.  Come prepared with NOAA, etc. data ready for tomorrow.

Honors Biology - Today we found out what we know and what we don't know.  We found out that rainfall has nothing to do with this buffalo issue, and we also know what carrying capacity means, but what else do we need to answer this question?  There is no official homework, but I want you to watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qB5zrj1rOXI 

Tuesday
IB Biology - Today we did a brief introduction/review of ecology (4.1).  You should know the names we use to describe the way organisms get their nutrients, but also about how we can discover associations between organisms using the chi-square test.  Tonight I want you to complete the chi-squared test DBQ on page 209.  Go step by step.

Honors Biology - Today we started to discover more information about our mystery, the Serengeti buffalo.  Today we looked at the idea that maybe predation went down during this period and what we found was that it actually went up a little bit, but was mostly stable!  It looks like predation isn't the answer, but it allowed us to talk about the trophic pyramid described by Dr. Lindeman and his 10% rule.  Tonight, I'm going to look, but I also want you to look for data on animal populations in the Serengeti, Breeding rates in the Serengeti, carrying capacity, disease, human interactions, or migration patterns of the Serengeti.  Remember, we need data not speculation.  Bring something to the data "party" tomorrow.  You can print it and put it on the left side of the entry.

Wednesday
IB Biology - Today we spent our time with prep work!  You should have divided up responsibilities for 4.2 Energy Flow, 4.3 Carbon cycling, and 4.4 Climate Change.  These should be incorporated into your environmental impact report, but I know you may not get it all so I'll answer questions on Friday since we have a guest speaker tomorrow.  We have exactly 1 week until this is due!

Honors Biology - Today you divide up all of the research topics that we discussed in class.  We focused on data and played the role of a good skeptical scientist.  We will summarize what we have found tomorrow, but until then I need you to summarize your research and describe what it means.  If it means that it couldn't possibly be one factor, then than that's what it means.  You do not have to have a whole answer, but put down your thinking.  This should end up on the left side of the entry we were working on.

Thursday - Minimum Day
IB Biology - Hello Y'all, I thought that our guest speaker was going to share a bit more than she did, but that's okay since we got a chance to discuss where we are in the project.  Tonight you should continue to incorporate your information into your report, but also to identify questions about the material for tomorrow.  In addition, I need you to prove your beliefs wrong when it comes to climate change.  Bring some data in for us to look at (with citation).  It should be hard copy so we can view it under the docucam.  We will answer questions, look at data, and go over the DBQ from earlier this week tomorrow.

Honors Biology - Today we were able to summarize your attack on the data in our attempts to solve the buffalo mystery of why the population rose and then plummeted.  Tonight using everything we have done so far, please go back to your original entry where you wrote your first model to explain what was happening with the buffalo, and write your second model/theory under the first one.  Be ready to share that tomorrow.

Friday
IB Biology - Have you included the following concepts?sources and sinks  of carbon cycling, a food web, energy conversions, how to monitor these changes in the environment, how greenhouse gases work, and uncertainty in predictions of climate change?
Honors Biology - ​​ The computer model can be found at http://serengeti.inquiry-hub.net I would also like you to turn the "Physical Raindrops" button off as it will help the speed of the program.

Set the %-GRASSLAND-CENTRAL-REGION slider value to any value above 80.

Set both the buffalo and wildebeest to 10

Click off the vaccine button (there should be no check in this box)

Turn on the seasonal rains and wildebeest migrate buttons (there should be checks in these boxes)    

Press the SETUP/RESET button. ------------>   

Press the GO/PAUSE button.  ----------------->

Press the INFECT BUFFALO button at 500 ticks.  ---------->

Click ON the vaccine button after 1000 ticks      

Keep the model running until at least 2000 ticks in order to see how Rinderpest and its cure affected the populations of the buffalo and wildebeest.  Record your observations.

Run this simulation 2 more times and record your observations.

​Now try your own ideas about change.

​

Monday
IB Biology - Today we went over the rubric for the environmental impact project that you are working on.  You now know how you will be scored.  We then went through a quick powerpoint that discussed the structure of plants and the function and processes involved in xylem tissue delivering water for photosynthesis.  The rest of the time was for you to work with your group.  We have 3 weeks to be done with this project so please do not waste time.  Technicians you should already have specimens to work with and if you don't you need to get moving!  Tonight I need everyone to review chapter 9.1 on Xylem tissue.  In particular I want you understand the why and how of water transport, but also complete the DBQ found on age 408.   Can you explain why the results on the DBQ occurred as well?  Please add your explanation on your responses for the DBQ.  This will be turned in tomorrow.  Lastly, watch this short video: The Most Amazing Things About Trees
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BickMFHAZR0

Honors Biology - Today we finished up what did last Friday. Tomorrow everyone will be turning in their work on the reflection from the movie the Thin Green Line.  You can find a link to the movie on Friday's post from last week.

Tuesday
IB Biology - Today I spent a chunk of time weighing in your plants that have been growing.  The big lessons from this simple experiment were many.  1) Bacteria is important to plant growth, 2) plants are specifically adapted to their environment (too much water), and 3) Soil is an environment all on it's own.
Next we spent time going through structures once again, but this time we discussed Phloem.  Tonight I want to reinforce all of this in a few ways.  Your job is to watch this interactive on translocation: http://highered.mheducation.com/sites/9834092339/student_view0/chapter38/animation_-_phloem_loading.htmlNext, review the chapter section (9.2) and complete the DBQ on 414.  You will turn this with yesterday's DBQ in tomorrow.  Lastly, please remember that all of these concepts will need to be included into your portfolio of work. ...only 2 weeks left.

Honors Biology - Today we recapped all that we learned from The Thin Green Line. We then looked at some data about the animals of the Serengeti and tried to come up with ideas of why the buffalo population would have climbed so high in the 60's and 70's.  Since we didn't get as far as I hoped, we will be looking at it again, but you have a chunk of notes.  Tonight I want you to use the data you collected today to make an initial theory of how the population grew.  You don't need to use outside sources, just what you have so far, but if you show 2 or 3 sentences tomorrow, you will be taking a zero on your homework.  Create a complete scenario that thinks about how the organisms are affected? How humans might be affected by this? and What choices could would be making that might affect this?  You will put out your best ideas.  This is all placed on the top part of left side of the entry from today.  The bottom half will be used later.

Wednesday
IB Biology - Today we talked about growth in plants and specifically discussed apical and lateral meristems as well as Auxins and how they can be used for phototropism as well as plant propagation.  Tonight you should reinforce these ideas by reviewing chapter 9.4.  In your notes be sure to include the drawing on page 423 (Fig.1).   After you have reviewed the concepts I want you to read about the Aloe Mite and connect it with mitosis, apical meristems, hormones (auxins), gene expression, and cancer.  You MUST connect these concepts (underline them) to the article on the Aloe and the Aloe Mite.  The article is found here and will be due on Monday
https://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/2145
I also found this handy site to describe the differences in monocots and dicot plants.
https://www.holganix.com/blog/monocots-vs-dicots-what-you-need-to-know

Honors Biology - Today we had a chance to go over the tests you took last week to finish our unit on evolution.  The biggest things I noticed was that a lot of people didn't read the instructions carefully.  Then I gave you a copy of an article that describes the Serengeti plains as well as a map of the region.  On the right you put the article in and on the left you put the map.  You should have read the article and marked it up, and then wrote notes on the MAP. Your notes would be like where the animals live, the different regions of the park, etc.  Tonight I need you to finish what we started today.

Thursday
IB Biology - Read as a group or at home (If you chose to use today to work as a group) on Chapter 9.4
You should gather an understanding of the following:
Photoperiods and flowering
You should complete the DBQ on 430-431.
Induction of flowering out of season.
THEN
Make a drawing of YOUR plant flowering and you must have stigma, style, anther, petal, filament, sepal, ovary.
ALSO describe the pollination, fertilization, and seed dispersal of YOUR plant.
NEXT, Create a seed structure diagram for YOUR plant.  This could be a great place to insert your pictures.
Lastly, In your group, each one of you will watch ONE of these interesting videos. Each video must be viewed by someone in your group.  You will make a reflection on a piece of paper that keys in on the important points. On Monday we will use this information and have it ready to be turned in.

Hidden beauty of pollination
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqsXc_aefKI 
Every Pollen grain has a story
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vXDJ-nAykKE 
Why we’re storing billions of seeds
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8Ff1Xj_-eM 
​
Honors Biology - Today you will start by sharing what you did for the map and article from yesterday.  PLease erase anything that your lab group does not agree all agree to, and add anything you may have forgotten.  You should have labels on the different regions, locations of animals, etc. We now know a little bit more about he area, but we haven't really found anything that would explain our rise in  the buffalo population. 

Next you will be "jigsawing" the articles that I left for you to learn more about the buffalo. There are 6 articles you will use, but first we need to set up your notebooks.

NEW ENTRY: "What do buffaloes eat and is there more of it now?" is the essential question at the top of the right hand side.
The right side of the entry is the notes you took from your reading.  
Top X axis: Buffalos eat/Other feeding patterns/questions

Y-Axis:  Reading 1-6
1) Forest Buffalo Fact Sheet 1999
2) Dry Season Diets
3) Wet season diets
4) Seasonal Diet Shift
5) Feeding Selectivity
6) Primary Productivity and Precipitation

Now, get into groups of 6 with each member from a different row.  Now Split up the 6 readings and attack them to find more information on the buffalo. 
You will do this as an individual first, but after ten minutes you will group up in various parts of the room with other readers who read the same article.  You should spend about 10 minutes comparing your notes with each other.
Next, go back to your original 6 partners and each person will report out about the buffalo info from each article.  You should fill in your chart (right page) as you go.

This will probably end up as homework, but finally, on the left, we will summarize as  a whole. Include the following in your summary

What do they eat?
What would a graph of their food look like?
Is there competition?
Is there a connection between rainfall?
What could have happened between this period we have been looking at to help them grow?

HW: Tomorrow you will be using a computer simulation to look at change in populations over time.  Watch the demo video to know how to do tomorrow’s work.  It can be found below as a download.


Friday
IB Biology: You have a ton of stuff to work on for your Environmental Impact Report.  Please be sure to use the checklist from last week.  You can text me, and I will get back to you ASAP.  You only have until the 27th, don't waste this time!  If I were working on this I would really focus on being in depth about what I report.  I would be sure that my citation was placed IN TEXT at all of the appropriate places.  I would make sure that all of our plant physiology and anatomy was done before the week is out (show me xylem tissue, leaf structure, etc.).  And of course I would be thinking about what the human impact is.  You are a group and this is not too much to ask.  

Honors Biology - ​​SO we still don't exactly know why the buffalo population grew, but we're about to get more clues today by using an online simulator, but first we need to set up our notebooks.

Make a NEW ENTRY with the following title:  Are buffalo population changes related to climate change?

Now take a moment to return to the graph of the buffalo population that we started with and to think about what we know, ...and don’t know?

Look at the climate data that I have placed below as a file.
Write down what it says as a whole (summarize each graph) and anything that looks interesting in the data.
Now, in a short paragraph can this data give us any insights and explain the growth, and what you would still like to know?

Now using the left side of this entry I want you to run a computer simulation that you learned about by watching the video last night (that is still down below), BUT DO IT AS PARTNERS.  The computer model can be found at http://serengeti.inquiry-hub.net I would also like you to turn the "Physical Raindrops" button off as it will help the speed of the program.

If you remember, in the demo, you saw 10 buffalo grow to a stable 35-45.
What causes populations to grow? And why doesn’t it just level off? Write down you initial ideas on the left side of this entry.

Now do Investigation 1
Predict: If you start out with 50 buffalo what do you think the graph will look like at the end?
Try it out! And record the graph NEATLY on the left side of your entry.

Now do Investigation 2
Start with 10 buffalo, but grassland to 80%
How will this cause a problem with carrying capacity?  
By changing precipitation will it change the carrying capacity?

Follow Up Investigations...
Now change Fences to YES and run it.
Now Change Season Rain to "yes" and run it.
Record data for fences AND rains to every combination possible.
(4 total: yes yes/yes no/no yes/no no)
How does all of this affect carrying capacity?

When I see you on Monday, any one of you should be able to discuss the findings.  BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS.

​

Monday
IB Biology - So today we sort of took inventory of where we have been.  We looked at the major idea of classification, looked at how that applies to your animal projects, and they recapped it by doing your follow up poster.  I'll get those graded as soon as possible.  Your task tonight, since we have a test coming up on Wednesday is to analyze your understanding of chapter 5.  I would suggest going through BioNinja and seeing where your weaknesses lie.  Come prepared with questions for tomorrow and I'll come prepared to share the content of the test.
 
Honors Biology - Today we made a sweeping review of the material so far.  We went from Addie's dilemma to the juncos of UCSD, to the lab work from last week, and to the article.  You then took a quiz on the work you did last week.  We didn't quite get to the POGIL work you did on Friday so we'll pick that up tomorrow.  So, what you need to do is come prepared with any questions you have at this point.  So, look at each entry and write your question about that topic in the "crack" of the entry.

Tuesday
IB Biology - SO today was really focused around the ideas of evolution in preparation for the test tomorrow.  This test will be relatively short, but will test you on all of the content from the chapter. Like yesterday I would suggest you go to BioNinja and review.

Honors Biology - Today we did a sample practice test in preparation for tomorrow.  Use that practice test to review for tomorrow, but remember that it's going to be a different subject and different graphs...and twice as long.  You need to know the big content of evolution so review your notebook  for more information.

Wednesday
IB Biology - Today was a super exciting day of testing!!!   Tomorrow we start the final two topics for the year before we prep for the big exam in May.  Even if you don't take the real thing, you will be taking a version of it.  Anyway, to prepare for our last unit that will span two topics we will continue to do this from the standpoint of an overriding project, but his one will be different in that you will now be taking the reigns as researcher.  The fundamental question you will be trying to answer is how could climate change affect plants.  I'm talking about a very detailed picture of answering this question.   So please just come prepared with what you think you would need to know to answer this question.  I'll have more details about the project itself tomorrow.

Honors Biology - Today was such a fun day!!!  ...fun for me, but not really for you. Tomorrow we start out on a new idea, but I want you to be totally ready.  To be ready I want you to update your Table of Contents in your notebook.  I'm working on mine!   Oh, also, tomorrow we will be working on finishing and submitting your POGILS, so please come with those.   You will work on them first and then turn them in.  It's a short day.

COOL Opportunity: 
Career Education: San Diego & Imperial Counties Community Colleges is partnering with the City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department to support the Girls Empowerment Camp on April 6  & 7, 2019.
 
This is a 2-day camp for teens ages 14-18 and includes:
 
• Hands-on training with firefighting tools and equipment
• 360-degree exposure to public safety career options
• CPR/AED training
 
GEC Flyer – also attached
Website:  http://sdfirerescue.org/gec/
Registration form: https://sandiego.seamlessdocs.com/f/empowermentcamp

Thursday
IB Biology - Today you started your final project.  You and your team have been hired to evaluate the effects of climate change on plants.  To complete this task you need to work together to:
1) Produce a portfolio which will have the following components and be based in EVIDENCE (your data or others)
     An introduction that describes your plants structure is detail to the cellular level,
     The physiology of the plant including the role of xylem and phloem.
     The biome that the plant is from
     Climate change projections for the region
     Include as many visuals as are appropriate, Be sure all visuals are tightly "fit" to the subject
     An analysis of the cumulative data 
     An assessment of the validity of the data 
     And a Projection and Recommendation for the future of the plant.

2) Some subjects that should be considered for the plant should include: Physiology, metabolism, growth, structure (roots, stems, and leaves), tolerances (pH, sublight, water, temperature, etc.), sensitivity, adaptations (cellular and macroscale), vulnerabilities (disease, etc.), soil preference, food web position and importance, and many others.

3) Some subjects that should be considered for the climate/ecology should include: How climate change occurs naturally and non-naturally, carbon cycling, energy flow, effects to the region, change over time, effects (rainfall, humidity, soil run off, weather frequency), soils and geology (Altitude, aspect, etc.)
 
Tonight I want you to start thinking of which plant you would like to use as your example.  This plant should be readily available here in San Diego as you will need to dissect a number of them for your study.  Cell size and type of plant can make a big difference so do a little research.

Honors Biology - While today we worked in class to complete and submit the POGIL, you then learned about citizen science.  Tonight I want you to prepare for tomorrow, by looking at this link and figuring out how to use Snapshot Serengeti.  That's it!  Tomorrow we'll use it more and start to look at a big picture of why this might be important.
https://www.zooniverse.org/projects/zooniverse/snapshot-serengeti ​

Friday
IB Biology - So today we got organized!  You found people who will be your project manager and who was your technician.  You divided up your work and started the process, but I noticed that we have some deficits in answering this question (which I anticipated).  On Monday I will start discussing plant anatomy to help with.  We'll also establish the rubric from which you can work.  All you really need to do this weekend is to gather sources (with citations) and bring some plant specimens to work with.

On another important point, I now know that the last of IB testing will be on the 24th of May.  I am looking for seniors to send me dates after the 24th that you think would be a great day to take our field trip.  You must email me your preference to have it considered!

Honors Biology - ​​Well, today got changed pretty quickly once I saw how many people were out due to the field trip.  SO this is what I need you to do...it's kind of a choose your own adventure ...without the choice part.

IF YOU WERE HERE, watch and take notes on: The Thin Green Line: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z6ANVQoe4oU
Notes go on the right of a new entry.
On the left side of the entry we will summarize with these questions:
How are the organisms affected?
How are the Humans affected?
Are there decisions that humans are making that are harming or helping?

IF YOU WERE NOT HERE, I want you to NOT watch the movie and to just prepare your notebook entry as above.

Everyone's reflections will be due on Tuesday!