9/14/09 Science

1) Students will have a quiz tomorrow (Tuesday, 9/15) going over lab safety, fire drill procedures and our work on genetics thus far.

2) This week in Apollo Science, students will learn about the human life expectancy and factors that have contributed towards expanding it. We will also learn about the 14 levels of organization within/throughout organisms and, towards the middle of this week, we will investigate the structure and function of the human brain. We will study neuroanatomy through the lens that we can actually change the structure of our brains, a concept known as neuroplasticity. I plan on having pig/cow brain specimens on Thursday (9/17) for students to make comparative observations. Students that are hesitant for whatever reason will not be forced to participate in the brain observations. They should see me as soon as possible for an alternative activity. Likewise, any parent that is concerned about their son or daughter handling these specimens should also contact me. Observing specimens is a memorable and exciting part of science and all students are encouraged to work within their comfort level.