This Week on the Island 01/09-01/13

Dates to Remember:

• End of Term 3: 01/13/17. My gradebook will close 01/11.

Need help with something? Post your questions on Edmodo.

Classroom News

  5^th Science

We start the week by concluding our conversation about sphere interactions. We will then talk about how each biome is unique and determine what organisms need to survive regardless of the biome they inhabit. You will be introduced to the "We Survived" project, and begin research that will inform your decisions. Will you be able to survive the Biome?

6^th Science 

This week will be all about drafting the origins story for your superhero. As you research information about GMOs and mutations, you will immerse yourselves in the story of your character. Although this is a creative writing piece, do not forget that you must demonstrate knowledge of genetics. Weave your knowledge into your story and make it unique!

7th Science

You will begin the week drawing out the epigenetic effects of your superhero's lifestyle choices. As you are doing this, think about your own choices. Remember that the choices you make today could have beneficial effects much further down your life. Once we complete that, we will move on to understanding how your genetic make-up can be modified as you draft your superhero origins story. 

7^th  Engineering

Now that you have some information on different "greening" aspects, it is time to start making some decisions about the house you will build. You will get a chance to draw out your floor plans and begin your builds. Do not forget to keep scale measurements exact. Do you have what it takes to create the greenest build?

8^th  Engineering

Now that you have some information on the natural disaster that is prompting your build, it is time to start making some decisions about the house you will build. You will get a chance to draw out your floor plans and begin your builds. Be on the lookout for opportunities to redesign your plans as you confront Mother Nature's wrath.

This Week on the Islands 01/03-01/06

Dates to Remember:

• End of Term 3: 01/13/17. My gradebook will close 01/11.

Need help with something? Post your questions on Edmodo.

Classroom News

  5^th Science

This week we start our Biomes unit. We will learn about the earth's spheres and how we interact with them. We will get ready to talk about how organisms survive in different biomes, and what makes each biome unique.

6^th Science 

We have talked about how traits get passed on, but what about the effects the environment has on different traits, What can a person do to increase/decrease their chances of presenting a genetically based disease? What happens to your offspring if you do not take care of yourself? These are some of the questions you will be ready to answer as we continue our Heredity unit.

7th Science

You will begin the week determining the probability of traits passed on to your superhero babies, and you will have a chance to draw him/her out. Is your baby a superhero or a villain? Back it up with your Punnett work. 

7^th  Engineering

This week we begin our Eco-House unit. You will talk about climate change and how engineers are working to make sustainable dwellings for all of us. You will do some research on the solutions already available and make some choices, preparing yourself to become green engineers. How easy is it to build eco-friendly dwellings?

8^th  Engineering

This week we begin by exploring different natural disasters, and how they affect the construction of dwellings. You will do some research to see what types of housing and materials are available, and how engineers have used ancient construction techniques to develop housing that can survive specific natural disasters. Can you outwit Mother Nature?