4/29

This week we explored 4 simple invertebrate phyla (Porifera, Cnidaria, Platyhelminthes, and Nematoda). Students worked collectively in a jigsaw activity to not only complete their notes but to see if they could teach each other a little more about each phyla. Throughout the week, students were able to complete an observation lab in order to review what we had learned. In this lab, students were able to identify and view hydra, planaria, sponges, coral, flatworms, roundworms, and jellyfish! We are taking our simple invertebrate quiz on Tuesday next week, once all the students are back in the classroom and we can review all together. Next, we will focus on mollusks and annelids (segmented worms).
Happy sunny Friday!

Week of 4/18

We wrapped up our chapter on protists and fungi this week and took the chapter test on Tuesday.

We have finally made our way into to the animal kingdom! Students explored the diversity of the animal kingdom with an activity on Wednesday. They had to list animals that fit into given categories, and then as students shared answers with the class, they had to cross off any animal that was listed by another group. The students came up with such a variety of animals, I think they surprised themselves with how familiar they were with the diversity of the animal kingdom. Remember, though...most animals (more than 95%) are actually invertebrates!
Next week we will study the phyla of simple invertebrates in more detail.

Week of 4/11

Last week we continued discussing the characteristics of the Protist Kingdom along with identifying the important structures of three common protozoa: the amoeba, euglena, and paramecium. Students had the opportunity to view prepared slides and live cultures of these three protists as well. Tuesday, we reviewed our protist notes by playing "protist bingo."
For the rest of the week we will be learning about the Fungi Kingdom, going over the general characteristics and focusing on its four major groups.

4/8

Dear 7th Grade Parents and Guardians,

I would like to take some time to introduce myself. My name is Kari Hopkinson, and I have taken over for Sarah Wagner. I have been frequently substituting throughout the year, which has enabled me to get to know many of your children. I am extremely eager to work with you and your student for the remainder of the school year.
Mrs. Wagner has spent a great deal of time with your students to establish a foundation and routine in learning in the Science classroom; my goal is to strive to maintain that comfortable practice which to assist the 7th graders in their progression into 8th grade. My hope is to help each student excel individually in Science.
I view communication with families as a vital part of your child’s success! If you should have any questions or concerns at all, please do not hesitate to contact me. My email address is khopkinson@ccsd66.org or call me at 630.783.5017. I look forward to working with you and your children for the remainder of the school year; this first week has been a blast!

Sincerely,

Kari Hopkinson