Structure and Properties of Atoms and Compounds

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The seminar contains information and experiences that demonstrate how atoms are the fundamental chemical unit from which life is constructed. The understanding of basic chemical principles follow life to its most complex form.  The included resources will show how the structure of atoms leads to the building of compounds and the new properties contribute to the new structures.BIO.A.2.1.1 Describe the unique properties of water and how these properties support life on Earth (e.g., freezing point, high specific heat, cohesion).BIO.A.2.2.1 Explain how carbon is uniquely suited to form biological macromolecules.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Water as an Essential Molecule of Life

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This learning seminar contains activities to investigate how the the properties of water are derived from the nature of the polar covalent bond. The various information pathways will allow the learner to demonstrate how the properties of water affect living organisms that have evolved on earth.StandardsBIO.A.2.1.1 Describe the unique properties of water and how these properties support life on Earth (e.g., freezing point, high specific heat, cohesion).

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Cellular Structures and the Process of Making Proteins

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In this seminar, you will discover that proteins need additional processing after translation. You will determine what you know and what you need to know through a knowledge inventory and quiz. You will try your hand at gaming to learn protein modification and structure, or build an RNA molecule to create proteins.StandardsBIO.B.2.2.1 Describe how the processes of transcription and translation are similar in all organisms.BIO.B.2.2.2 Describe the role of ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and the nucleus in the production of specific types of proteins.BIO.B.2.3.1 Describe how genetic mutations alter the DNA sequence and may or may not affect phenotype (e.g., silent, nonsense, frame-shift).

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Problem Based Module: It’s All About The Mutations

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In this project, you will explore a real-world problem, and then work through a series of steps to analyze that problem, research ways the problem could be solved, then propose a possible solution to that problem. Often, there are no specific right or wrong solutions, but sometimes one particular solution may be better than others. The key is making sure you fully understand the problem, have researched some possible solutions, and have proposed the solution that you can support with information / evidence.Begin by reading the problem statement in Step 1. Take the time to review all the information provided in the statement, including exploring the websites, videos and / or articles that are linked. Then work on steps 2 through 8 to complete this problem-based learning experience.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Mutations - Mistakes Happen

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In this seminar you will curate information on the types of mutation that best help you learn the information. A comparison of how harmful different types of mutation can be will generate a deeper understanding of each type. You will explore examples of authentic mutations and choose one to communicate your findings.StandardsBIO.B.2.2.1 Describe how the processes of transcription and translation are similar in all organisms.BIO.B.2.2.2 Describe the role of ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and the nucleus in the production of specific types of proteins.BIO.B.2.3.1 Describe how genetic mutations alter the DNA sequence and may or may not affect phenotype (e.g., silent, nonsense, frame-shift).

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Unity of Life in Protein Synthesis

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In this seminar you will create a mental organization scheme to learn the central dogma theory in the steps of synthesizing proteins. Interactive games will help reinforce the process. You will model the process by creating coded (transcribing) secret messages and translating messages.StandardsBIO.B.2.2.1 Describe how the processes of transcription and translation are similar in all organisms.BIO.B.2.2.2 Describe the role of ribosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and the nucleus in the production of specific types of proteins.BIO.B.2.3.1 Describe how genetic mutations alter the DNA sequence and may or may not affect phenotype (e.g., silent, nonsense, frame-shift).

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Plasma Membrane-bound Organelles in Material Transportation

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In this seminar you will use deductive reasoning to sequence steps of transport within the endomembrane system. You will construct a visual image of the endomembrane system using various media to provide practice for your peers.StandardsCompare and contrast the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in organisms.BIO.A.4.2.1 Explain how organisms maintain homeostasis (e.g., thermoregulation, water regulation, oxygen regulation).BIO.A.4.1.3 Describe how endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and other membrane-bound cellular organelles facilitate transport of materials within cells.BIO.A.4.1.2 Compare and contrast the mechanisms that transport materials across the plasma membrane (i.e., passive transport -- diffusion, osmosis, facilitated diffusion; active transport -- pumps, endocytosis, exocytosis).BIO.A.4.1.1 Describe how the structure of the plasma membrane allows it to function as a regulatory structure and/or protective barrier for a cell.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Cellular Structure (Plasma Membrane) and Function

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In this seminar you will create images of the biologically important structures of the cell membrane. The pictures will be translated to function. You will practice the terminology of these structures to associate their importance in the function of the cell membrane. The inquiry lab will allow you to design a model of the limitations of cell growth due to the cell membrane using water balloons.StandardsBIO.A.2.2.3 Compare and contrast the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in organisms.BIO.A.4.2.1 Explain how organisms maintain homeostasis (e.g., thermoregulation, water regulation, oxygen regulation).BIO.A.4.1.3 Describe how endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, and other membrane-bound cellular organelles facilitate transport of materials within cells.BIO.A.4.1.2 Compare and contrast the mechanisms that transport materials across the plasma membrane (i.e., passive transport -- diffusion, osmosis, facilitated diffusion; active transport -- pumps, endocytosis, exocytosis).BIO.A.4.1.1 Describe how the structure of the plasma membrane allows it to function as a regulatory structure and/or protective barrier for a cell.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Problem Based Module: Cell Membrane Function and Dysfunction- A Key to Diseases

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In this project, you will explore a real-world problem, and then work through a series of steps to analyze that problem, research ways the problem could be solved, then propose a possible solution to that problem. Often, there are no specific right or wrong solutions, but sometimes one particular solution may be better than others. The key is making sure you fully understand the problem, have researched some possible solutions, and have proposed the solution that you can support with information / evidence.Begin by reading the problem statement in Step 1. Take the time to review all the information provided in the statement, including exploring the websites, videos and / or articles that are linked. Then work on steps 2 through 8 to complete this problem-based learning experience.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Mechanisms of Transport in the Cell Membrane

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In this seminar you will inventory your knowledge of cellular transport and learn to organize the transport types based on energy requirements. There are many activities in the Engage section, each with a specific concentration in a type of transport. Your participation in a simple virtual lab wil help you quickly observe results to aid in understanding concentration gradients and the movement of material across a cellular membrane.StandardsBIO.A.2.2.3 Compare and contrast the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in organisms.BIO.A.4.2.1 Explain how organisms maintain homeostasis (e.g., thermoregulation, water regulation, oxygen regulation).BIO.A.4.1.2 Compare and contrast the mechanisms that transport materials across the plasma membrane (i.e., passive transport -- diffusion, osmosis, facilitated diffusion; active transport -- pumps, endocytosis, exocytosis).BIO.A.4.1.1 Describe how the structure of the plasma membrane allows it to function as a regulatory structure and/or protective barrier for a cell.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Cancer and Mitosis

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Cancer is a disease that touches everyone's life at some point. It is estimated that one out of two men and one out of three women get the disease. Learn more about the statistics here.  As a learner, it's important to grasp the basic question “What is Cancer?” since it affects so many people. At the heart of cancer is a cell function issue: uncontrolled cellular division. This, in turn, creates malignant cells. Throughout this lesson you will be challenged to visualize the connection between normal cells and cancer cells. You will explore the creation of tumors. In addition, this concept will help you better understand those people around you whose lives are impacted by cancer.  StandardsBIO.B.1.1 Describe the three stages of the cell cycle: interphase, nuclear division, cytokinesis

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Mitosis and the Cell Cycle

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The human body is composed of trillions of cells. Each cell has a specific purpose to help carry out life. Many of these trillions of cells will wear out and need replaced. This essential process for life is called mitosis. In this seminar you will explore, compare, and reflect on how cells reproduce and make copies of themselves. Additionally, you will be challenged to create a model of the process based on your experience.StandardsBIO.B.1.1.1 Describe the events that occur during the cell cycle: interphase, nuclear division (i.e., mitosis or meiosis), cytokinesis.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Meiosis

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Life is unique because of diversity. Take a look at a room full of children; no two will be alike.  What is the mechanism at the cellular level that causes this? Meiosis is the process of cell division that facilitates this process. During meiosis, special cells form for the purpose of reproduction.    In this seminar, you will learn how meiosis creates gametes with half the number of chromosomes of the parent cell, and you will explore the steps in cell division. The process of mitosis and meiosis are very similar, and you will need to reflect and differentiate between the two.   Additionally, you will be challenged to create physical models of the process while applying new understanding.  StandardsBIO.B.1.1.2 Compare and contrast the processes and outcomes of mitotic and meiotic nuclear divisions.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Problem Based Module: Life

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In this project, you will explore a real-world problem, and then work through a series of steps to analyze that problem, research ways the problem could be solved, then propose a possible solution to that problem. Often, there is no specific right or wrong solutions, but sometimes one particular solution may be better than others. The key is making sure you fully understand the problem, have researched some possible solutions, and have proposed the solution that you can support with information / evidence.Begin by reading the problem statement in Step 1. Take the time to review all of the information provided in the statement, including exploring the websites, videos and / or and articles that are linked. Then work on steps 2 through 8 to complete this problem-based learning experience.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Function Follows Structure

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In this seminar students construct graphic organizers to make sense of the profuse amount of concept specific vocabulary terms as they relate to the structure and function of the 4 biomacromolecules.  They will collect data as they test common foods for the presence of these 4 organic molecules in a virtual lab.StandardsBIO.A.2.2.2 Describe how biological macromolecules form from monomers.BIO.A.2.2.3 Compare and contrast the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in organisms.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Enzymatic Proteins - How They Regulate Life

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In this seminar students will explore the hacking of glue! You will inquire about the way in which enzymes are a part of chemical reactions in the biological sense through simulations.  Experimental investigations will lead to the understanding of the denaturing process of enzymes.StandardsBIO.A.2.2.2 Describe how biological macromolecules form from monomers.BIO.A.2.2.3 Compare and contrast the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in organisms.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

The Formation of Polymers

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In this seminar your will experience how the use of polymers is a daily occurrence and compare the processes of how polymers are built for biological systems.  You will create a field guide to the biological macromolecules and their respective monomers.StandardsBIO.A.2.2.2 Describe how biological macromolecules form from monomers.BIO.A.2.2.3 Compare and contrast the structure and function of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids in organisms.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Problem Based Module: What is SAD About Your Food?

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In this project, you will explore a real-world problem, and then work through a series of steps to analyze that problem, research ways the problem could be solved, then propose a possible solution to that problem. Often, there is no specific right or wrong solutions, but sometimes one particular solution may be better than others. The key is making sure you fully understand the problem, have researched some possible solutions, and have proposed the solution that you can support with information / evidence.Begin by reading the problem statement in Step 1. Take the time to review all of the information provided in the statement, including exploring the websites, videos and / or and articles that are linked. Then work on steps 2 through 8 to complete this problem-based learning experience.

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Populations Dynamics

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In this seminar you will mesh new and old information and expand your application of ecology to population by using equations to calculate population growth. A virtual lab will further push your assessment of population by growing and collecting data on the competitive interactions between two populations.StandardsBIO B.4.1.1, BIO B.4.1.2,BIO B.4..2.1,BIO B.4.2.2, BIO B.4.2.3,BIO B.4.2.4,BIO B.4.2.5

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains

Biotic Interactions Within an Ecosystem

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In this seminar you will view the environment through the lens of a research scientist that demonstrates the connectivity of living systems. You will recognize the dependency of biotic interactions as they transfer energy to sustain life. Participation in an inquiry lab will allow you to ponder about what lurks in the plants of your neighborhood and apply this understanding to managing biotic systems.StandardsBIO B.4.1.1, BIO B.4.1.2,BIO B.4.2.1,BIO B.4.2.2, BIO B.4.2.3,BIO B.4.2.4,BIO B.4.2.5

Material Type: Lesson Plan

Authors: Bonnie Waltz, Deanna Mayers, Tracy Rains