Investigations in Science 7 June 9, 2017

What we did this week:

Can you believe there is only one more week of school? Where has the time
gone? This week we looked at how DNA helps scientists determine
relationships. We sequenced organisms according to their DNA strands. Although
a shark and dolphin seem to have a lot physically in common, their DNA is very
different and they dont share a common ancestor.

We continued with our look at evolutionary evidence. Students were given

DNA samples of 4 organisms: Whistling Duck, Platypus, North American Beaver,
and Echidna. Although the four species have similar features only 2 of them are
closely related. They first predicted which two organisms are related, then using
the same gel electrophoresis lab as earlier in the year they tested the DNA
samples. The gel ran for 20 minutes and then was placed on a blue staining sheet
and we observed it on Wednesday on a lightbox. Students found that the platypus
and the echidna were closely related.

Thursday and today, we started learning about adaptations. There are two
main types of adaptations, behavioral and structural. Structural are the physical
traits like camouflage. There are learned behaviors or instinctual
behaviors. Examples like hibernation, migration, forming groups, etc. We had
learned earlier in the year about mutations when we looked at DNA. This time we
were focusing on how a mutation and natural selection work together. They also
explored a computer model to explore a simulation of natural selection.

Announcements:

Yearbooks will be distributed today in science classes if your child

preordered them. If you would like to still order a yearbook, you can do so at:
https://yearbookforever.com/#school/332034/2017
 Fun Day is next Wednesday. I have attached information about fun day to
the email. The day will start with Minute to Win It activities. If students
attempt all activities, they will be eligible to possibly win a prize. Then students
will watch a movie of their choice. In the afternoon, students will get to choose
between an indoor activity, different sports and field games, and all will get to play
on a bounce house obstacle course. Sign ups for these activities will be through
science classes on Monday. Students should be wearing appropriate clothing
(shorts, running shoes, etc.) to be outside in the heat (predicted to be in the 90s
on Wednesday). They should also come with a water bottle to stay hydrated. The
forms should only be returned if you do NOT want your child to participate.

Coming Up:

Topics:

Natural Selection and Adaptations

RFP

Dates:

June 12 Review Sheet Due (Attached): Natural Selection and

Adaptations
June 13 ASSESSMENT: Natural Selection and Adaptations
June 14 7th Grade Fun Day
June 16 Last Day of School Early Dismissal