Gabriella De Feo Science Blog

  1) What did you learn this week?  This week in lab, we began discussing Charles Darwin's evolution and natural selection. To do this, we conducted a simulation with our table mates, so we were able to see the dynamic between predator and prey relationships. We used three different groups of colored beans and forks, spoons, and sticks to try to emulate how predator relationships would work in an ecosystem. In addition to this, we shared out findings on the "Homework 8" assignment, which deepened my thinking of the NGSS standards.  2) Are you able to relate what you learned to what you already knew?  In many of my high school classes, I have learned about key concepts we discussed in class, like evolution, natural selection, and predator and prey relationships. I was able to recall some of the information I had learned then when it came time to discussing it today in class.  3) Which parts did you find clear or confusing?  At the beginning of the activity, ...

1) What did you learn this week?  This week in lab, we started off by taking a look at our fast plant to observe if they were growing seeds or not. Unfortunately, my plant is not looking as good as it once was, and there are no seeds present. Next, we revisited the baby-making activity that we began last week. I enjoyed seeing my classmates' babies and learning about the kinds of dominant and recessive genes they carry.  Additionally, we took a look at codon charts and practiced reading them. We also learned about mutations and did an activity with a partner where we took a look at RNA and DNA strands and then decided if there was a mutation in the person.  2) How can you apply what you learned to your future in the classroom?  I think the superhero worksheet that we did in class to get a grasp on mutations would totally be something I would want to incorporate into my future classroom. I thought it was a great way to learn about DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. It w...

  1. What did you learn this week?  This week during lab, we checked in on our fast plant to monitor its growth-- it is on day 20 or 21 and is looking awesome. It has blossomed even more flowers and is growing very quickly. Also, we took a closer look at genetic material and DNA processes. Within this, we learned that there are three parts of protein synthesis: DNA replication, transcription, and translation. Then, in pairs we were directed to construct our own DNA model using Dots and Twizzlers. In do this, we were able to visually see which pairs always remain constant with one another, which made it make more sense in the grand scheme of things.  2. Are you able to relate what you learned to what you already knew?  In grade school, I remember discussing the probability of genes using Punnett squares and other things like that. I had not thought of that concept in awhile, though, so I was reminded of the process of it through the coin flipping activity we did in cl...