ROCK and ROLL!

We have been studying the rock cycle and how one rock type can change into another. Additionally, we've learned about how organisms that were on Earth in the past sometimes left clues behind as to their existence. That's right- fossils. Over the next few days we will be starting to understand how the Earth's 4.6 billion year history is organized and some of the bazaar organisms that lived on Earth before humans. There are three fascinating videos we will be watching: Before the Dinosaurs which catalogs Paleozoic life, Chased by Dinosaurs which shows Mesozoic life, and Walking with Prehistoric Beasts which portrays Cenozoic creatures.
Check out this website for interactive rock building!

Visit a prehistoric zoo here! Be sure to leave a comment!

Heredity and DNA test

On Thursday, you will be taking a Heredity and DNA test. Start reviewing early. Practice your vocabulary words with the flashcards or study stack. Click here for a practice test. When you come in Thursday to take the test, leave nothing. Video Courtesy of NIKE USA.

Genes, Heredity, and DNA... Oh my!

I have released the flashcards for chapters six and seven. Please start to review them. I will be giving you a hard copy of them on Monday. Remember: Flashcards are useless if you don't practice them! They're small enough to keep in your pocket. I recommend bringing them with you wherever you go- to the mall, the grocery store, or wherever! You can spend a few short moments reviewing as you are driving around or waiting in line at the stores! Enjoy!

For the StudyStack Games using these words, click here!

Photo courtesy of Steven2005 on flickr.

DNA Extraction Lab

Needless to say, the DNA extraction lab was hugely successful. I recevied so many e-mails from families requesting the procedure so that it could be done at home. Here's a video that should help you get started. Try using something else instead of strawberries. Will apples, bananas, or meat work? Be sure to practice careful sanitation and lab safety when working with chemicals and raw foods.

Science Class Part Duex

Trimester two is here! I'm not going to lecture about new beginnings or second chances. You all know the opportunity for change is upon us. Instead, I am going to congratulate those of you who earned the grade you set out for. Continue working hard and the things of life will come to you. (A little philosophy for you!)
Now that you have been seventh graders for a whole trimester already, you know what to expect from your science class, and from me, your teacher. There are so many cool activities and lessons coming your way! In the words of Rick Countryman, "Buckle your seatbelts"!

Photo courtesy of Kev Bailey on Flickr.

Trimester One Final Exam

The final is scheduled for Friday, November 16.

Every topic we covered this year will be revisited on the final. From the scientific method and metrics to cell processes like respiration. Its never too early to start reviewing! Be sure to check here often for study tips and resources.

Click here for the Big 50 answers!

Cell Test

The first big test of the year will be on Friday. Be sure to review your cell introduction notes, organelle notes, and the cell energy information. The StudyStack is an excellent option as well. The test is 50 questions, a combination of essay, true/false, fill in, and multiple choice.

Click here to take a practice version.

Click here for the big 30 answers.

Click here for the big 30 answers (pdf format).

Click here to revisit the StudyStack for this test.