Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Links to student projects
Links to four of the projects are posted on the right. Some of the movies are too large to post, but if you would like to see them, leave a comment with your email and I will send them to you. Thanks!
Things to change for the project next year
I can't thank all of you enough who were the guinea pigs for this experiment in a global problems, local solutions curriculum. This was the first time I ever tried anything like this and was really impressed by the work that all of you put in. Here's the feedback you gave for ways to change/improve the project for next year.
No more than two groups per topic, first come first serve blog posting.
Give students a better explanation of why they are doing research.
Mandatory group meetings with Ms. Saxe
More variety of topics
Better timeline for turning in assignments; set dates and times for turning in work.
Present the projects earlier in the term, especially because the Sophomores are going on the Expedition.
More opportunities to practice public speaking throughout the year.
Most of the feedback you gave fit into these categories:
No more than two groups per topic, first come first serve blog posting.
Give students a better explanation of why they are doing research.
Mandatory group meetings with Ms. Saxe
More variety of topics
Better timeline for turning in assignments; set dates and times for turning in work.
Present the projects earlier in the term, especially because the Sophomores are going on the Expedition.
More opportunities to practice public speaking throughout the year.
Wrap up on the presentations
During the last class period we reflected on what skills were learned in the process of completing the presentations.
"Learned to research things on the web better, because before I was really bad at it and my dad would make fun of me for it. It’s a lot easier to find things, now I know how to search."
"I’ve never been the one to pick up the slack, I’ve always been the slacker, but with this project I picked up the slack."
If you’re editing a movie don’t do it the day it is due
If you are editing a movie the day it is due, make sure you have someone around knows what they are doing.
How to make a website using only HTML.
Public speaking skills: face the audience and project your voice. make sure that everyone speaks the same amount. Had a script and practiced, equally distributed.
Time management: don’t wait to the last minute, delegating. Misinterpretation of directions, don’t be lazy. Read the directions for the assignment.
Test your presentation before you do it to make sure it works.
If you offer the audience the chance to ask questions you need to know what you’re talking about:
Time management: pay more attention to deadlines.
Learned how to make a blog
Make a better PowerPoint
Learned how to make a PowerPoint
I learned that communication between group members is really important.
How to make t-shirts
I can do just about anything on MySpace
"Learned to research things on the web better, because before I was really bad at it and my dad would make fun of me for it. It’s a lot easier to find things, now I know how to search."
"I’ve never been the one to pick up the slack, I’ve always been the slacker, but with this project I picked up the slack."
Here's some of the valuable things that we learned:
If you’re editing a movie don’t do it the day it is due
If you are editing a movie the day it is due, make sure you have someone around knows what they are doing.
How to make a website using only HTML.
Public speaking skills: face the audience and project your voice. make sure that everyone speaks the same amount. Had a script and practiced, equally distributed.
Time management: don’t wait to the last minute, delegating. Misinterpretation of directions, don’t be lazy. Read the directions for the assignment.
Test your presentation before you do it to make sure it works.
If you offer the audience the chance to ask questions you need to know what you’re talking about:
Time management: pay more attention to deadlines.
Learned how to make a blog
Make a better PowerPoint
Learned how to make a PowerPoint
I learned that communication between group members is really important.
How to make t-shirts
I can do just about anything on MySpace
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Posting your projects
If you have not already sent me your PowerPoint, video or link to your blog/website, please do so by the end of today so I can post it. Thanks!
Round 2 is all done!
Congratulations to everyone who presented last night!
Thank you to the following people who took time out of their busy schedules to come check out your hard work.
*Mr. & Mrs. Erickson
*Mrs. Brewster
*Mrs. Berry
*Mrs. Norris & Grandma Norris
*Mrs. Lee
*Mr. Hildebrand
*Mrs. Redman
Thank you to the following people who took time out of their busy schedules to come check out your hard work.
*Mr. & Mrs. Erickson
*Mrs. Brewster
*Mrs. Berry
*Mrs. Norris & Grandma Norris
*Mrs. Lee
*Mr. Hildebrand
*Mrs. Redman
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Thank You!!
I thought last night went very well. Congratulations to everyone who presented and has now officially completed Honors Biology.
Thank you to the following people who took time out of their busy schedules to attend the presentations:
*Mrs. Vinci-Germar
*Mrs. Slover
*The Helms family (3)
*The DiBari family (3)
*Mrs. Brown
*Mr. Rollins
*Mr. Redman
*Mr. & Mrs. Menke
*Mr. Brummer
*Mrs. Farr-Williams
*Mr. Stiles
*Mike B.
*Amber R.
Thank you to the following people who took time out of their busy schedules to attend the presentations:
*Mrs. Vinci-Germar
*Mrs. Slover
*The Helms family (3)
*The DiBari family (3)
*Mrs. Brown
*Mr. Rollins
*Mr. Redman
*Mr. & Mrs. Menke
*Mr. Brummer
*Mrs. Farr-Williams
*Mr. Stiles
*Mike B.
*Amber R.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Tonight is the Night!
The first presentation is less than seven hours away! A few reminders...
* Everyone must attend all of the presentations (unless you have already spoken to me).
* Everyone must be in the Master Classroom at 5:45pm tonight
* If you are presenting please dress nicely (but you don't have to be in vespers dress).
* Have at least 15 copies of your pamphlet/flyer
* Have a printed copy of your rubric. If you don't have this 10 points will be subtracted from your final grade.
* Everyone must attend all of the presentations (unless you have already spoken to me).
* Everyone must be in the Master Classroom at 5:45pm tonight
* If you are presenting please dress nicely (but you don't have to be in vespers dress).
* Have at least 15 copies of your pamphlet/flyer
* Have a printed copy of your rubric. If you don't have this 10 points will be subtracted from your final grade.
Friday, May 11, 2007
Class in Meservey Today
Class will be in Meservey today. Please come with any questions or concerns you have about the project. Thanks!
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Schedule of Presentations
Everyone is expected to attend both nights for all of the presentations. You only need to be dressed up for the night that you are presenting. I have emailed all parents, so who knows they might show up....so be prepared!
Tuesday 5/15
6:00pm Paul, Alex S., Bruce and Matt
6:20pm Sayde, Jess, Kali and Mike H.
6:40pm Steve, Zach, Mike O.
7:00pm Matt, Chien, Connor
7:20pm David, Carson, Chloe, Mike
7:40pm Rachel, Whitney, Kayla
8:00pm Jun, Tak
Wednesday 5/16
6:40pm Nick, Dan
7:00pm Carol, Ben, Nicoya, Gunnar
7:20pm Patrick, Ryan
7:40pm Jihoon, Kevin
8:00pm Allie, Olivia, Andrea
8:20pm Keirsten, Alex
Be at the Master Classroom NO LATER THAN 5:45
Tuesday 5/15
6:00pm Paul, Alex S., Bruce and Matt
6:20pm Sayde, Jess, Kali and Mike H.
6:40pm Steve, Zach, Mike O.
7:00pm Matt, Chien, Connor
7:20pm David, Carson, Chloe, Mike
7:40pm Rachel, Whitney, Kayla
8:00pm Jun, Tak
Be at the Master Classroom NO LATER THAN 6:30
Wednesday 5/16
6:40pm Nick, Dan
7:00pm Carol, Ben, Nicoya, Gunnar
7:20pm Patrick, Ryan
7:40pm Jihoon, Kevin
8:00pm Allie, Olivia, Andrea
8:20pm Keirsten, Alex
Monday, May 7, 2007
Presentation Deadline Finalized
Presentations will take place on Tuesday 5/15 and Wednesday 5/16 in the Master Classroom. Family, friends, advisors and community members are welcome to attend.
Today groups are working in the ARC. Below are the rest of the assignment descriptions for each part of the "pink sheet."
5. Problem Statement. This should be 3-5 sentences describing your issue. There are so many global problems, why is your problem the most important? This must be an original statement. Below is a problem statement on domestic violence from: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/Kits/Family/probst.htm
Not long ago, what happened within the home was considered to be a private, family matter and was excluded from scrutiny by the public. During the last two decades, there has been an increase in awareness of the seriousness of child abuse and neglect, spouse/partner abuse, and elder abuse not only as critical societal problems but as crimes. As a result, there has been an increase in the use of the criminal process in addressing family and domestic violence. National incidence reports and research studies reveal the dramatic increase in family violence and the increasing tendency to respond to the problem not only as crime within the family but also as the prevention of crime outside the family.
6. Create a summary table for EACH ITEM the multimedia resource list. No summary is needed for the NH representative.
7. Revised problem statement. Look at the feedback you were given on the problem statement and your increased knowledge as a result of summarizing the multimedia resource list. Revise your problem statement. You must also submit your original problem statement with the revised statement.
8. Local Solutions. What are ten ways people can start making a difference in their community. This list may include sending petitions to state representatives etc..
9. Outline of final visual. Create an outline of the visual you are going to create. Note: a poster is unacceptable. Possible options include: a youtube video, website or blog. The visual must be something that can be presented electronically. What will your visual include?
10. Meeting #2 with Ms. Saxe. You need to come to this meeting prepared to discuss the following things. Your preparedness will count as a quiz grade.
a. Defend your problem statement. Why is this statement what you believe in?
b. Explain your local solutions. Are these feasible? How do you plan to implement them?
c. Explain your final visual and rubric. Turn in a hard copy of your rubric.
11. Evidence of the local solutions. Copies of letters you sent to a representative, pictures of you making a difference, pictures of flyers around campus. Be Bold! Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Some local papers even allow articles to be submitted.
Contact info for the Laconia Citizen: http://www.citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=citizen1102
12. Working draft of final visual. What is a working draft? This means your project is basically completed. If you needed to turn the project in “as is” you could. You will be presenting your progress to the class and receive “warm” and “cool” feedback. “Warm” feedback are things you are doing well and “cool” feedback are things that you could improve on.
13. Working draft of the pamphlet or flyer. What is a working draft? This means your project is basically completed. If you needed to turn the project in “as is” you could. See the components of final project paper for details on what your project should include.
14. Turning in the due date sheet. Your grade sheet should be completed with the grades you have received. Turning in the sheet does not mean you get credit. It must be completed.
Today groups are working in the ARC. Below are the rest of the assignment descriptions for each part of the "pink sheet."
5. Problem Statement. This should be 3-5 sentences describing your issue. There are so many global problems, why is your problem the most important? This must be an original statement. Below is a problem statement on domestic violence from: http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/Kits/Family/probst.htm
Not long ago, what happened within the home was considered to be a private, family matter and was excluded from scrutiny by the public. During the last two decades, there has been an increase in awareness of the seriousness of child abuse and neglect, spouse/partner abuse, and elder abuse not only as critical societal problems but as crimes. As a result, there has been an increase in the use of the criminal process in addressing family and domestic violence. National incidence reports and research studies reveal the dramatic increase in family violence and the increasing tendency to respond to the problem not only as crime within the family but also as the prevention of crime outside the family.
6. Create a summary table for EACH ITEM the multimedia resource list. No summary is needed for the NH representative.
7. Revised problem statement. Look at the feedback you were given on the problem statement and your increased knowledge as a result of summarizing the multimedia resource list. Revise your problem statement. You must also submit your original problem statement with the revised statement.
8. Local Solutions. What are ten ways people can start making a difference in their community. This list may include sending petitions to state representatives etc..
9. Outline of final visual. Create an outline of the visual you are going to create. Note: a poster is unacceptable. Possible options include: a youtube video, website or blog. The visual must be something that can be presented electronically. What will your visual include?
10. Meeting #2 with Ms. Saxe. You need to come to this meeting prepared to discuss the following things. Your preparedness will count as a quiz grade.
a. Defend your problem statement. Why is this statement what you believe in?
b. Explain your local solutions. Are these feasible? How do you plan to implement them?
c. Explain your final visual and rubric. Turn in a hard copy of your rubric.
11. Evidence of the local solutions. Copies of letters you sent to a representative, pictures of you making a difference, pictures of flyers around campus. Be Bold! Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper. Some local papers even allow articles to be submitted.
Contact info for the Laconia Citizen: http://www.citizen.com/apps/pbcs.dll/section?category=citizen1102
12. Working draft of final visual. What is a working draft? This means your project is basically completed. If you needed to turn the project in “as is” you could. You will be presenting your progress to the class and receive “warm” and “cool” feedback. “Warm” feedback are things you are doing well and “cool” feedback are things that you could improve on.
13. Working draft of the pamphlet or flyer. What is a working draft? This means your project is basically completed. If you needed to turn the project in “as is” you could. See the components of final project paper for details on what your project should include.
14. Turning in the due date sheet. Your grade sheet should be completed with the grades you have received. Turning in the sheet does not mean you get credit. It must be completed.
Friday, May 4, 2007
Peer Reviewed Article Search
Today we will be in the ARC and you will be looking for scholarly peer reviewed articles. Slover found that using Google Scholar worked really well for the latest articles. You can also use EBSCO host. When you click on the EBSCO host icon on the NHS library home page scroll down and click on health resources.
Click blue "ADVANCED SEARCH" tab at the top of the page.
Make sure that you also check the boxes for "full text" and "scholarly (peer reviewed) journals."
Click blue "ADVANCED SEARCH" tab at the top of the page.
Make sure that you also check the boxes for "full text" and "scholarly (peer reviewed) journals."
The bare minimum you must complete today is finding 10 peer reviewed articles. Ideally this articles would be linked to the full text, but if that is not possible it is OK.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Research, Research, Research
Today and tomorrow classes will be in the ARC completing assignment #3. Typed hard copies of the lists need to be turned in at the end of class in order for you to get credit.
Assignment #3:
Multimedia Resource List: A public service announcement is a brief statement to get people thinking about a problem. A resource list directs the audience where to find additional information and ways to make a difference. Your list must include each of the following (1 point for each source).
Ten Websites. The following websites are UNACCEPTABLE: anything with a url attached to wikipedia, ask.com, about.com, askjeeves.com etc. NOTE: if you type in “global warming” 80,800,000 results are available. Look through some of them: the best are not always the first results. Give the title of the website and the url.
EXAMPLE: Global Warming in NH: http://www.ucsusa.org/global_warming/science/global-warming-in-new-hampshire.html
Three Videos / Documentaries. These videos should be full length films. A great place to look is the library catalogue through Gordon Nash Library (you know….the building across the street). Catalogue is online at: http://www.nhu-pac.library.state.nh.us/#focus . In the search box select “broad keyword.” To narrow your search, include the word “video.” For example you may search “HIV video.”
Five books. You can check the library catalogue or try www.amazon.com. Give the title and author of the book.
Contact information for a NH state representative (there are two to chose from). Include both the Washington, D.C. and Concord, NH office information.
One podcast. Include the URL, title of the podcast and name(s) of the people speaking.
Assignment #3:
Multimedia Resource List: A public service announcement is a brief statement to get people thinking about a problem. A resource list directs the audience where to find additional information and ways to make a difference. Your list must include each of the following (1 point for each source).
Ten Websites. The following websites are UNACCEPTABLE: anything with a url attached to wikipedia, ask.com, about.com, askjeeves.com etc. NOTE: if you type in “global warming” 80,800,000 results are available. Look through some of them: the best are not always the first results. Give the title of the website and the url.
EXAMPLE: Global Warming in NH: http://www.ucsusa.org/global_warming/science/global-warming-in-new-hampshire.html
Three Videos / Documentaries. These videos should be full length films. A great place to look is the library catalogue through Gordon Nash Library (you know….the building across the street). Catalogue is online at: http://www.nhu-pac.library.state.nh.us/#focus . In the search box select “broad keyword.” To narrow your search, include the word “video.” For example you may search “HIV video.”
Five books. You can check the library catalogue or try www.amazon.com. Give the title and author of the book.
Contact information for a NH state representative (there are two to chose from). Include both the Washington, D.C. and Concord, NH office information.
One podcast. Include the URL, title of the podcast and name(s) of the people speaking.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Popular News Articles
In an unprecidented event, everyone turned in something for the first assignment (see homework below). I can not stress enough for this project that:
You need to make sure you read all the directions for these assignments. Everything is outlined for you.
There are less than 15 days until you start presenting so make sure you stay focused. Classes on Wednesday and Thursday will meet in the ARC and be expected to complete assignment #3.
You need to make sure you read all the directions for these assignments. Everything is outlined for you.
There are less than 15 days until you start presenting so make sure you stay focused. Classes on Wednesday and Thursday will meet in the ARC and be expected to complete assignment #3.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Groups & Topics for the final project
1. Chloe, Carson, Germar & Tanos.................Global Warming
2. Chien, Matt M. & Burrows..........................Biological Weapons
3. Redman, Mike O., Gallo............................HIV / AIDS
4. Allie, Olivia & Andrea...................................HIV/ AIDS
5. Kayla, Whitney & Rachel.............................HIV/ AIDS
6. Dan & Nick.....................................................Biological Weapons
7. Bruce, Paul, Slover & Hamel........................Energy Resources
8. Ben, Nicoya, Gunnar & Carol.......................HIV/ AIDS
9. Pat & Griff......................................................Disease
10. Jun & Tak.....................................................Global Warming
11. Sayde, Jess, Kali & Mike H.........................Depletion of Resources
12. Kiersten & Thrower....................................Global Warming
13. Ji & Moon.....................................................Ozone / Global Warming
Homework: Complete assignment #2. DUE IN CLASS ON TUESDAY MAY 1st.
Find five articles that are from popular news sources (for example: CNN, The New York Times, Newsweek etc..) and complete a summary table. Your summary table must include: the title, author(s), date of publication, date you found the article, complete url or citation and a summary. Your summary should be about five sentances and include the who, what, why, how etc.. What is important in this article?
2. Chien, Matt M. & Burrows..........................Biological Weapons
3. Redman, Mike O., Gallo............................HIV / AIDS
4. Allie, Olivia & Andrea...................................HIV/ AIDS
5. Kayla, Whitney & Rachel.............................HIV/ AIDS
6. Dan & Nick.....................................................Biological Weapons
7. Bruce, Paul, Slover & Hamel........................Energy Resources
8. Ben, Nicoya, Gunnar & Carol.......................HIV/ AIDS
9. Pat & Griff......................................................Disease
10. Jun & Tak.....................................................Global Warming
11. Sayde, Jess, Kali & Mike H.........................Depletion of Resources
12. Kiersten & Thrower....................................Global Warming
13. Ji & Moon.....................................................Ozone / Global Warming
Homework: Complete assignment #2. DUE IN CLASS ON TUESDAY MAY 1st.
Find five articles that are from popular news sources (for example: CNN, The New York Times, Newsweek etc..) and complete a summary table. Your summary table must include: the title, author(s), date of publication, date you found the article, complete url or citation and a summary. Your summary should be about five sentances and include the who, what, why, how etc.. What is important in this article?
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Bottle Biology A & E blocks
Today A & E blocks came up with their experimental designs and built the TerraAqua Column.
The title of A block's experiment is:
The effects of various concentrations of "acid rain" on the growth of Wisconsin Fast Plants. Acid rain is in quotes because we need to speak to Peg & Barb about the best acid rain we can make.
The title of E block's experiment is:
The effects of various concentrations of "pesticides" on the growth of Wisconsin Fast Plants. Pesticides is in quotes because Kali is going to ask her mom (a landscaper) about the best pesticide to test.
Homework: Groups and topics are due in class on Monday. Remember, once topics are chosen they can not be changed. Choose Wisely!
The title of A block's experiment is:
The effects of various concentrations of "acid rain" on the growth of Wisconsin Fast Plants. Acid rain is in quotes because we need to speak to Peg & Barb about the best acid rain we can make.
The title of E block's experiment is:
The effects of various concentrations of "pesticides" on the growth of Wisconsin Fast Plants. Pesticides is in quotes because Kali is going to ask her mom (a landscaper) about the best pesticide to test.
Homework: Groups and topics are due in class on Monday. Remember, once topics are chosen they can not be changed. Choose Wisely!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
More Infectious Disease Presentations & Bottle Biology
B Block finished up their infectious disease presentations.
C Block started their Bottle Biology experiments.
C Block started their Bottle Biology experiments.
What is Bottle Biology?
"Like many good things in life, the inspiration for Bottle Biology arose unexpectedly — in this case from a pile of autumn leaves. While raking his garden, Paul Williams, a professor of Plant Pathology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, asked himself what might be going on in the middle of the large compost pile he was creating. Why not put some of the leaves in an empty soda bottle and watch them to find out, he wondered. The result: The Decomposition Column and the beginning of Bottle Biology."
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Infectious Disease Presentations
Here's some of the great work people presented on infectious diseases.
Cut outs from Jun and Tak's Influenza Presentation
Cut outs from Jun and Tak's Influenza Presentation
Monday, April 23, 2007
Researching in the ARC
Today all classes will meet on the second floor of the ARC to work on their presentations. Remember to look at the rubric so that the project meets all the requirements.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Infectious Saturday
Today all classes worked on their infectious disease presentations.
Presentations are due in class on Tuesday April 24th. Late projects will not be accepted.
Presentations are due in class on Tuesday April 24th. Late projects will not be accepted.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Infectious Disease Presentations
In class on Tuesday you will give your infectious disease presentations:
Here's the guidelines:
–5-10 minutes in length
–Include a visual
–Have a handout for the class that includes:
•A description of the disease
•Symptoms
•Populations affected
•Disease progression
•Treatment options
Wikipedia is not an acceptable source for your bibiography. The following sources are:
National Institues of Health -- Emerging Diseases Index
Center for Disease Control -- Emerging Infectious Diseases
University of Iowa -- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
Here's the guidelines:
–5-10 minutes in length
–Include a visual
–Have a handout for the class that includes:
•A description of the disease
•Symptoms
•Populations affected
•Disease progression
•Treatment options
Wikipedia is not an acceptable source for your bibiography. The following sources are:
National Institues of Health -- Emerging Diseases Index
Center for Disease Control -- Emerging Infectious Diseases
University of Iowa -- Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
HIV/AIDS wrap up quiz*
*This was orginally going to be a quiz, however, given recent events, it is now worksheet.
B & C blocks completed the quiz/worksheet and did very well.
The Global Problem will be "Emerging and Re-Emerging diseases." For this problem, students will choose one of the following diseases from the National Institutes of Health emerging infectious diseases index. Students will create a presentation on their disease for the class. This will be the last global problem we address before students break out to work on their final projects.
B & C blocks completed the quiz/worksheet and did very well.
The Global Problem will be "Emerging and Re-Emerging diseases." For this problem, students will choose one of the following diseases from the National Institutes of Health emerging infectious diseases index. Students will create a presentation on their disease for the class. This will be the last global problem we address before students break out to work on their final projects.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Structure & Replication of HIV
Admit Slip: What does HIV look like? How big is it compared with other things in our bodies?Objectives:
1. Students will take notes from a powerpoint using a graphic organizer with screen shots from the HIV replication animation (see link in side bar).
2. Students will then work in pairs to discuss a case study using their current knowledge on the basic biology of HIV, disease progression, structure & replication of HIV.
Homework All classes: review and organize your notes for an open notes quiz in class tomorrow.
Friday, April 13, 2007
Progression and replication of HIV
Admit Slip: How often is another person infected with HIV? Click here to find out.
Today students took notes on the progression of HIV and how HIV uses a host cell to replicate.
The animation you watched in class is available here and in the side bar on the right.
Homework all classes:
1. Watch the video clip below and follow the instructions for posting your comment.
2. Be prepared for an open notes quiz on HIV & AIDS in class on Tuesday.
Today students took notes on the progression of HIV and how HIV uses a host cell to replicate.
The animation you watched in class is available here and in the side bar on the right.
Homework all classes:
1. Watch the video clip below and follow the instructions for posting your comment.
2. Be prepared for an open notes quiz on HIV & AIDS in class on Tuesday.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Kurt Vonnegut & You
Watch the video clip below (thanks hans!). Post a statement reflecting on something that was said in the video and how it relates to what we learned about global warming or what we are learning now about HIV & AIDS.
For example, here's my statement: (92) HONORABLE PEOPLE: Seeing/listening to this part made me think of when President Mbeki spoke at the 12th HIV/AIDS conference in South Africa. In front of 12,000 people he held to his belief that "a virus cannot cause a syndrome."
For example, here's my statement: (92) HONORABLE PEOPLE: Seeing/listening to this part made me think of when President Mbeki spoke at the 12th HIV/AIDS conference in South Africa. In front of 12,000 people he held to his belief that "a virus cannot cause a syndrome."
Thoughts from Kurt Vonnegut
Found this on YouTube and thought it might support the awesome work this group is doing.
Basic Biology of HIV & Disease Progression
In addition to finishing the movie and going over the final project, A & E long blocks started class notes on the basic biology of HIV and the disease progression.
Did you know: Because of reverse transcription (RNA--> DNA) the mutation rate in HIV is 1,000,000 greater than that of normal transcription (DNA-->RNA).
How do you think this impacts the creation of treatment for HIV?
Did you know: Because of reverse transcription (RNA--> DNA) the mutation rate in HIV is 1,000,000 greater than that of normal transcription (DNA-->RNA).
How do you think this impacts the creation of treatment for HIV?
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Movie Wrap Up (Wednesday & Thursday)
Classes will finish watching State of Denial and have a discussion on the impacts of the film. The honors classes will recieve the guidelines for their final exam/project.
PLEASE NOTE: You will only get one copy of the packet for the final project. If you lose it, it is your responsiblity to find another one.
PLEASE NOTE: You will only get one copy of the packet for the final project. If you lose it, it is your responsiblity to find another one.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Would you recommend your friends and family see State of Denial
Bonus: Post your response to question #5: Would you recommend this film to friends, family or people in your community? Should this film be shown at Vespers?
A Block: 5 things I learned from watching State of Denial
Post a comment below to answer the question: What are five things you learned from watching the film.
B Block: 5 things I learned from watching State of Denial
Post a comment below to answer the question: What are five things you learned from watching the film.
C Block: 5 things I learned from watching State of Denial
Post a comment below to answer the question: What are five things you learned from watching the film.
E Block: 5 things I learned from watching State of Denial
Post a comment below to answer the question: What are five things you learned from watching the film.
Monday, April 9, 2007
State of Denial
Today and tomorrow students will be watching the documentary State of Denial.
"As powerfully revealed in "State of Denial," many high ranking members in the popularly elected government — sincere heirs to Nelson Mandela — don't believe the HIV virus causes AIDS. This single decision to doubt the link has turned a crisis into a catastrophe. With five million people infected and nearly two thousand new infections occurring daily, South Africa has the highest number of people living with HIV in the world.
The film takes viewers into the lives of people struggling to survive with HIV in the face of social stigma, a severe lack of access to lifesaving treatments, and their president Thabo Mbeki's controversial stance on the connection between HIV and AIDS. A film of quiet outrage, "State of Denial" weaves the personal with the political in an uplifting portrait of ordinary people struggling to survive." - Excerpt from the film's synopsis, to read more click here
While watching the film students will complete a graphic organizer on the nine of the people and one group featured in the film.
Lastly during and after the film students will answer the following five questions:
1. How does President Mbeki's attitude towards HIV make you feel?
2. What was the most difficult thing to understand in the film?
3. What are five things you learned watching this?
4. What are four questions you have?
5. Would you recommend this movie to other students, people in the community, your parents? Why or why not?
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Wrap up on Global Warming
We've solved the problem of Global Warming. After our mock debates we decided that everyone just needs to "get along" and "work together."
Between Friday and Saturday, all classes took a quiz on Global Warming, Ecosystems and Food Webs.
While we only scratched the surface of the problem, hopefully now you have a better understanding of the controversy and the problem.
The next unit we are looking at is emerging and re-emerging disease.
HOMEWORK: All Re-D0's for the Newspaper article are due on Monday.
Between Friday and Saturday, all classes took a quiz on Global Warming, Ecosystems and Food Webs.
While we only scratched the surface of the problem, hopefully now you have a better understanding of the controversy and the problem.
The next unit we are looking at is emerging and re-emerging disease.
HOMEWORK: All Re-D0's for the Newspaper article are due on Monday.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Jess's Newspaper Article on Global Warming & Lakes
Below is Jess's article for the assignment here.
Recent studies show that at one time our deserted Lake Winnipesaukee was a great vacation place for people fleeing from the summer heat waves from the East Coast. People left cities such as New York City to vacation at such a beautiful area.New York City was once a densely populated, multi-cultured, vibrant city before the ocean level rose and took over the city. Nowadays, we recognize that Lake Winnipesaukee is anything but a safe haven from heat. It is hard to believe that only five hundred years ago, the lake was a vacation paradise.
Today, in 2507, there is little life around the area known as the Lakes Region. Because of the much high temperatures today, photosynthesis has slowed down because the nutrients that once existed in the water couldn’t move to the surface. At the time when four seasons occurred each year, Winnipesaukee would experience spring overturn normally at this time during the year. Spring overturn was when the strong vertical movements delivered dissolved oxygen from the surface water to the bottom of the lake. This released nutrients which moved to the surface. May temperatures about five hundred years ago at Lake Winnipesaukee averaged at about 55°F. On May 5 this year the recorded temperature was 83°F.
Spring overturn was followed by fall overturn, which no longer exists. The purpose of fall overturn was to cycle the nutrients which caused a burst of primary productivity. Fall overturn stopped occurring when the temperature of the world rapidly increased during the mid 22nd century. Without the decrease of temperatures anymore, a permanent thermocline formed and prevented mixing between the warm surface and the cool bottom. The thermocline has been sustained for several hundred years. Life began to disappear within the lake because the thermocline prevented nutruients from growing.
The tragedy known as global warming increased the temperature of this lake and stopped its natural cycle. No more vacations are taken to Lake Winnipesaukee. Instead the area is uninhabited. Maybe in another five centuries, Lake Michigan will even become a vacated terrain.
Lake Winnipesaukee – Five Centuries Ago
By Jess N.
May 9, 2507
By Jess N.
May 9, 2507
Recent studies show that at one time our deserted Lake Winnipesaukee was a great vacation place for people fleeing from the summer heat waves from the East Coast. People left cities such as New York City to vacation at such a beautiful area.New York City was once a densely populated, multi-cultured, vibrant city before the ocean level rose and took over the city. Nowadays, we recognize that Lake Winnipesaukee is anything but a safe haven from heat. It is hard to believe that only five hundred years ago, the lake was a vacation paradise.
Today, in 2507, there is little life around the area known as the Lakes Region. Because of the much high temperatures today, photosynthesis has slowed down because the nutrients that once existed in the water couldn’t move to the surface. At the time when four seasons occurred each year, Winnipesaukee would experience spring overturn normally at this time during the year. Spring overturn was when the strong vertical movements delivered dissolved oxygen from the surface water to the bottom of the lake. This released nutrients which moved to the surface. May temperatures about five hundred years ago at Lake Winnipesaukee averaged at about 55°F. On May 5 this year the recorded temperature was 83°F.
Spring overturn was followed by fall overturn, which no longer exists. The purpose of fall overturn was to cycle the nutrients which caused a burst of primary productivity. Fall overturn stopped occurring when the temperature of the world rapidly increased during the mid 22nd century. Without the decrease of temperatures anymore, a permanent thermocline formed and prevented mixing between the warm surface and the cool bottom. The thermocline has been sustained for several hundred years. Life began to disappear within the lake because the thermocline prevented nutruients from growing.
The tragedy known as global warming increased the temperature of this lake and stopped its natural cycle. No more vacations are taken to Lake Winnipesaukee. Instead the area is uninhabited. Maybe in another five centuries, Lake Michigan will even become a vacated terrain.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
Debates: US, China, Industry & Environmentalists
There were some great newspaper articles on the future of global warming and our lake ecosystems. These will be posted later this afternoon.
Today (and tomorrow for A and E blocks) students worked in teams to prepare arguements for who should be responsible for affecting change when it comes to CO2 emissions and how these changes will take place.
After reading "confidential documents" containing information on their specific group's point of view, students will debate the issue and must come to a resolution on a climate change policy.
Homework: All students must bring a 2 liter bottle to class on Saturday (E block, bring your bottle on Friday).
Today (and tomorrow for A and E blocks) students worked in teams to prepare arguements for who should be responsible for affecting change when it comes to CO2 emissions and how these changes will take place.
After reading "confidential documents" containing information on their specific group's point of view, students will debate the issue and must come to a resolution on a climate change policy.
Homework: All students must bring a 2 liter bottle to class on Saturday (E block, bring your bottle on Friday).
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Global Warming & Ecosystems
Admit Slip: Do rich nations have an obligation to help poorer ones prepare for potential changes caused by global warming? (taken from a New York Times reader's forum).
Agenda:
1. Discuss admit slip
2. Review critical thinking #4 (work in groups to share experimental designs) and present to the class.
3. Hand out progress reports to students with below a B (84%).
Honors Homework: Read section 42.9 and answer the following question:
Take a trip into the future. How far into the future is up to you. Write a newspaper article on how global warming has affect the lakes. You may want to use Lake Winnipesaukee as the basis for your story. Think about how global warming could effect spring overturn and thermocline formation. Make sure your newspaper article includes: a title, a date of publication (may 12, 20-whatever), a location. The best articles from each class will be posted here.
Agenda:
1. Discuss admit slip
2. Review critical thinking #4 (work in groups to share experimental designs) and present to the class.
3. Hand out progress reports to students with below a B (84%).
Honors Homework: Read section 42.9 and answer the following question:
Take a trip into the future. How far into the future is up to you. Write a newspaper article on how global warming has affect the lakes. You may want to use Lake Winnipesaukee as the basis for your story. Think about how global warming could effect spring overturn and thermocline formation. Make sure your newspaper article includes: a title, a date of publication (may 12, 20-whatever), a location. The best articles from each class will be posted here.
Monday, April 2, 2007
Justices Rule Against Bush Administration on Emissions
"WASHINGTON, April 2 — In one of its most important environmental decisions in years, the Supreme Court ruled today that the Environmental Protection Agency has the authority to regulate heat-trapping gases in automobile emissions."
For the full story from the New York Times click here. Hats off to Mike H. for reading this article and sending it in.
For the full story from the New York Times click here. Hats off to Mike H. for reading this article and sending it in.
Geochemical Cycles
First: Apologies to A Block. It was a gong show (and it was my fault). If you're in A block and you talk to anyone in classes later in the day you'll find out that we didn't do notes like your class did. Sorry, but that's what happens when you're the first class of the day on Monday.
Everyone else, very nice job presenting on the carbon and nitrogen cycles (esp. the B block nitrogen group).
Honors Homework: Read pages 739-747 and answer the critical thinking question #4 at the end of the chapter.
Everyone else, very nice job presenting on the carbon and nitrogen cycles (esp. the B block nitrogen group).
Honors Homework: Read pages 739-747 and answer the critical thinking question #4 at the end of the chapter.
Friday, March 30, 2007
Local Solutions from the discussion on An Inconvenient Truth
What are feasible solutions to minimize our impact @ NHS?
Here's what A block had to say (Thanks Chien!)
Ø Eat less meat
Ø Don’t use lighters
Ø Turn your lights off when no one is in the room
Ø Packing list for students should include: must have a surge protector with a power switch
Ø Conserve water
Ø Unplug electronics when not in use
Ø Replace normal light bulbs with energy efficient ones
Ø Recycle
Ø Have book store offer to sell organic clothes
Ø Have a vegetable oil club
Ø Convert heating furnace to use vegetable oil
Ø Replace old windows
Ø Plant more trees
- Surge protectors
- Recycling
- Reducing the use of the sprinklers
- Encourage less use of lights in dorms and classrooms
- Holding class outside
- Car pooling for day students
- Promote use of automatic lights
- Update heating systems
- Turning off and unplugging T.V, alarms, music ect...
- Penalties for leaving on electronics
- Energy consumption contest
More efficient mini-buses
Increase recycling by getting more recycling bins and making them more visible
Throw out napkins separately from food trash
Solar power
Plant trees to counteract carbon dioxide
More efficient heatingà Get rid of radiators
Wind turbines on Burleigh Mountain
Turn off lights
More double paned glass windows
Rake leaves instead of leaf blowers
Stop smoking
Geothermal wells
Here's what A block had to say (Thanks Chien!)
Ø Eat less meat
Ø Don’t use lighters
Ø Turn your lights off when no one is in the room
Ø Packing list for students should include: must have a surge protector with a power switch
Ø Conserve water
Ø Unplug electronics when not in use
Ø Replace normal light bulbs with energy efficient ones
Ø Recycle
Ø Have book store offer to sell organic clothes
Ø Have a vegetable oil club
Ø Convert heating furnace to use vegetable oil
Ø Replace old windows
Ø Plant more trees
Here's what C Block had to say (Thanks Amanda!)
- Surge protectors
- Recycling
- Reducing the use of the sprinklers
- Encourage less use of lights in dorms and classrooms
- Holding class outside
- Car pooling for day students
- Promote use of automatic lights
- Update heating systems
- Turning off and unplugging T.V, alarms, music ect...
- Penalties for leaving on electronics
- Energy consumption contest
Here's what E Block had to say (thanks Steve!)
More efficient mini-buses
Increase recycling by getting more recycling bins and making them more visible
Throw out napkins separately from food trash
Solar power
Plant trees to counteract carbon dioxide
More efficient heatingà Get rid of radiators
Wind turbines on Burleigh Mountain
Turn off lights
More double paned glass windows
Rake leaves instead of leaf blowers
Stop smoking
Geothermal wells
Discussion on An Inconvenient Truth
Today classes will discuss their reactions to watching An Inconvenient Truth. After a discussion students will work in groups of 3 to come up with a list of feasible LOCAL SOLUTIONS that we can implement on campus at NHS.
The following students are responsible for typing up their class LOCAL SOLUTIONS
E Block: Steve G.
A Block: Chien M.
B Block: Olivia N.
C Block: Amanda G.
Part 1: Use the link on the right "Calculating your impact on global warming" to calculate your impact. You are asked for your utility bills, if you are a boarding student this is a great chance to call home and talk to your folks.
Part 1: Complete the worksheet "Where's all the snow?" In case you manage to lose it, here are the questions and links (remember: cite your sources!)
Assignment: Use the following websites (and any others that you find) to complete the following questions. For each question, you must write the URL (or source) for where the information came from. Writing “google” is unacceptable.
http://www.ucsusa.org/global_warming/science/global-warming-in-new-hampshire.html
www.nwf.org/globalwarming/pdfs/NewHampshire.pdf
http://www.enn.com/today.html?id=12391
http://www.carboncoalition.org/education/impacts.php
Here are the questions:
1. What is New Hampshire’s attitude towards global warming?
2. What is being done to curb carbon dioxide emissions?
3. How has global warming impacted the economy of NH?
4. Chose another state in the country and compare NH’s views to this other state
The following students are responsible for typing up their class LOCAL SOLUTIONS
E Block: Steve G.
A Block: Chien M.
B Block: Olivia N.
C Block: Amanda G.
Homework (all classes):
Part 1: Use the link on the right "Calculating your impact on global warming" to calculate your impact. You are asked for your utility bills, if you are a boarding student this is a great chance to call home and talk to your folks.
Part 1: Complete the worksheet "Where's all the snow?" In case you manage to lose it, here are the questions and links (remember: cite your sources!)
Assignment: Use the following websites (and any others that you find) to complete the following questions. For each question, you must write the URL (or source) for where the information came from. Writing “google” is unacceptable.
http://www.ucsusa.org/global_warming/science/global-warming-in-new-hampshire.html
www.nwf.org/globalwarming/pdfs/NewHampshire.pdf
http://www.enn.com/today.html?id=12391
http://www.carboncoalition.org/education/impacts.php
Here are the questions:
1. What is New Hampshire’s attitude towards global warming?
2. What is being done to curb carbon dioxide emissions?
3. How has global warming impacted the economy of NH?
4. Chose another state in the country and compare NH’s views to this other state
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
An Inconvenient Truth (3/28 & 3/29)
Admit Slip: What is an ecosystem? What are they composed of? Do you think they are fragile or fairly stable?
Objective: Students will begin to understand what an ecosystem is composed of so they can better understand the effects of global warming.
Homework: On Thursday night at Vespers the entire school will be watching An Inconvenient Truth. Even if you are a day student, please plan to attend. While you are watching the film take notes on the following things:
1. What are three major themes in the film?
2. What does Al Gore argue the link between temperature and CO2 is?
3. What part of the film had the greatest impact on you?
Bonus Point Opportunity: Post your answer to question #3 on this post. In order to get credit posts must be completed by 8am on Friday 3/30.
Objective: Students will begin to understand what an ecosystem is composed of so they can better understand the effects of global warming.
Homework: On Thursday night at Vespers the entire school will be watching An Inconvenient Truth. Even if you are a day student, please plan to attend. While you are watching the film take notes on the following things:
1. What are three major themes in the film?
2. What does Al Gore argue the link between temperature and CO2 is?
3. What part of the film had the greatest impact on you?
Bonus Point Opportunity: Post your answer to question #3 on this post. In order to get credit posts must be completed by 8am on Friday 3/30.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
What is a global problem?
Classes today worked on creating a definition for a global problem. Here's what we came up with:
A global problem...
....affects all countries
....affects all living and non-living things
....is a problem that finding a solution ASAP is in the best interest of the global population.
After creating a definition, students worked in groups to brainstorm responses to the following questions about one of three top three global problems (Global Warming, HIV/AIDS and War).
1. What does this problem include (what are the affects of this problem)?
2. What are possible solutions for this problem?
3. What biology knowledge do you need to address this problem?
A global problem...
....affects all countries
....affects all living and non-living things
....is a problem that finding a solution ASAP is in the best interest of the global population.
After creating a definition, students worked in groups to brainstorm responses to the following questions about one of three top three global problems (Global Warming, HIV/AIDS and War).
1. What does this problem include (what are the affects of this problem)?
2. What are possible solutions for this problem?
3. What biology knowledge do you need to address this problem?
The results of the posts
Thanks to all of you who posted over break! The top three problems were:
1. Global Warming
2. Disease (mainly HIV/AIDS)
3. War
Below are the tallies for everything that was posted. Below the problem is an (*). Each (*) represents each time a problem was listed. Some people listed very similar problems and these were grouped together.
Disease HIV/AIDS
*************************
Global Warming / Pollution
**************************
Poverty
*************
Military / War / Corruption
******************
Nuclear Proliferation
******
Darfur
****
Loss of Biodiversity
***
Dependency on oil
*****
Human Rights
*
Loss of middle class
*
Education opportunities
*
Social instability
*
Loss of resources
*
Ignorance
*
Gay Marriage
*
Communism
*
Not enough resources
***
Religious conflict
**
Displacement of refuges
*
The stuff in Blood Diamond
*
Loss of ozone
**
Extreme destitution in Africa
*
Terrorism
**
Lack of drinkable water
**
UNC losing to Georgetown
*
Pollution
***
Equity among people
*
Natural Disasters
****
Genocide
**
Use of fossil fuels
**
Next power source
*
Globalization leading to a growing income gap in all parts of the world
*
Starvation / Hunger
***
Deaths
*
Health Care
*
Sanitation
*
1. Global Warming
2. Disease (mainly HIV/AIDS)
3. War
Below are the tallies for everything that was posted. Below the problem is an (*). Each (*) represents each time a problem was listed. Some people listed very similar problems and these were grouped together.
Disease HIV/AIDS
*************************
Global Warming / Pollution
**************************
Poverty
*************
Military / War / Corruption
******************
Nuclear Proliferation
******
Darfur
****
Loss of Biodiversity
***
Dependency on oil
*****
Human Rights
*
Loss of middle class
*
Education opportunities
*
Social instability
*
Loss of resources
*
Ignorance
*
Gay Marriage
*
Communism
*
Not enough resources
***
Religious conflict
**
Displacement of refuges
*
The stuff in Blood Diamond
*
Loss of ozone
**
Extreme destitution in Africa
*
Terrorism
**
Lack of drinkable water
**
UNC losing to Georgetown
*
Pollution
***
Equity among people
*
Natural Disasters
****
Genocide
**
Use of fossil fuels
**
Next power source
*
Globalization leading to a growing income gap in all parts of the world
*
Starvation / Hunger
***
Deaths
*
Health Care
*
Sanitation
*
Monday, March 26, 2007
Congratulations A Block!
A round of applause for those students in A block. You were the first class to have every person post his/her top five global problems. Great start to the spring term. Your class average is 100%. Keep it up!
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
In case you can't see the original post
For some strange reason, the post isn't showing up below. Hopefully this works. If you haven't posted a comment yet, you can post it here (or below). If you already posted a comment, you're all set.
Over break your homework is to post a comment answering the question:
"What do you think are the top 5 global problems?"
Posts must be completed by 8am on March 27th in order for you to get credit. You do not need to make a user name, you can post the comment anonymously and then sign you name. Please only use your first name and last initial.
Over break your homework is to post a comment answering the question:
"What do you think are the top 5 global problems?"
Posts must be completed by 8am on March 27th in order for you to get credit. You do not need to make a user name, you can post the comment anonymously and then sign you name. Please only use your first name and last initial.
Friday, March 2, 2007
Global Problems
Over break your homework is to post a comment answering the question:
"What do you think are the top 5 global problems?"
Posts must be completed by 8am on March 27th in order for you to get credit. You do not need to make a user name, you can post the comment anonymously and then sign you name. Please only use your first name and last initial.
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