Search results for: “science graph”

  • Hardy Weinberg and the Pocket Mouse

    Hardy Weinberg and the Pocket Mouse

    Use Hardy Weinberg equilibrium to analyze data of rock pocket mouse populations in the desert.

  • Chi Square Analysis

    Chi Square Analysis

    The new Advanced Placement Biology curriculum includes a few topics on statistical analysis under the section on Science Practices: “Students can use mathematics appropriately.”  Most introductory level biology classes (freshman) do not include these lessons because it can be difficult with students who haven’t advanced very far in algebra.   Seniors in  AP Biology should…

  • High School Students Doing Field Biology

    High School Students Doing Field Biology

    If you are fortunate enough to teach near a university, there is a very good chance that programs at the college are in place to help high school teachers.   For years, I have been able to borrow equipment from Southern Illinois University and Washington University to alleviate the costs of buying the equipment for…

  • Why I Teach Pathology in Biology

    Why I Teach Pathology in Biology

    When you examine the AP Biology Course Description, there is no mention of pathology (the study of diseases) in the list of Big Ideas.   Bacteria are mentioned in the context of comparison between prokaryotes and eukaryotes, lines of descent, and endosymbiosis.  Viruses are mentioned within the context of genetics and how DNA can be transferred…

  • Top 10 Classroom Pets

    Top 10 Classroom Pets

    Many science teachers have classroom specimens (or pets) to serve as model organisms, to teach students how to care for animals, and to generally liven up the space.   When I first started teaching, I inherited a room that had beautiful cabinets full of specimens preserved in formaldehyde. I wanted a pet in  that space…

  • How to Make Group Activities and Grading Fair

    How to Make Group Activities and Grading Fair

    During the cell unit of Advanced Placement biology, students are required to do three investigations (labs):  Diffusion and Osmosis,  Photosynthesis, and Cellular Respiration.  Students work in groups of 3 to 4 to work through these investigations and analyze data.  I often have them only turn in ONE copy of the lab guide because as a…

  • How to Use Google Docs to Leverage Student Engagement

    How to Use Google Docs to Leverage Student Engagement

    Google docs can make grading and commenting more engaging for students. When students upload their google docs, you can comment and have discussions.

  • Writing to Learn – A Common Core Standard

    Writing to Learn – A Common Core Standard

    A collection of activities for students to use writing assignments to engage in lessons and learn scientific concepts.

  • Are Kids Out of Touch with Nature?

    Are Kids Out of Touch with Nature?

    My students are suburban raised and have very little experience in the wild. After reading the article, “Give Childhood Back to Children,” I considered that playing outside not only helps kids learn social structures, it also allows them to explore nature.

  • What is “Mastery” and Why is It Important?

    What is “Mastery” and Why is It Important?

    Education leaders often talk about mastery. Here’s what it means to me and how I can assess whether students have mastered content.

  • Mini Field Trip to the Park

    Mini Field Trip to the Park

    If you’re on the last days before school is out for the summer, you are probably encountering a lot of excited kids who really aren’t interested in sticking their nose in a book. Why not take them outside onto the school grounds or a nearby park and do outdoor projects?

  • Top 5 Online Quiz Makers

    Top 5 Online Quiz Makers

    List of apps that can be used to help student learn content. Practice quizzes can be shared across social media or LMS. Best quiz apps include quizziz, quizalize, and quizlet.

  • How to Have a Great First Day of School

    How to Have a Great First Day of School

    Things I do the first day that are intended to get students interested in the class and excited about science. Classroom management is still important, and I avoid going too overboard the first day because then students get the wrong impression that every day is going to be Super-Happy-Fun-Time. That being said, there are some…

  • Biology Class Curriculums for Multiple Levels

    Biology Class Curriculums for Multiple Levels

    Anatomy 1 & 2 –  This class is usually taken by juniors and seniors,  by students that are interested in entering a medical field after graduation.  It is recommended for those on a career path to become: AP Biology (also SLU dual credit)- this is a college level course which has strict prerequisites, biology and chemistry are…

  • Student Activities for Reading Assignments

    Student Activities for Reading Assignments

    Use these activities for student reading assignments. Post it notes, pair and share, highlight text, and concept maps