Apologia Biology: PBL and Ecology

This week, after the microscope quiz, the kids are going to learn how to conduct water tests, measure turbidity, check the rate, and catalog benthic macroinvertebrates.  Additionally, we're starting Module 2 and reviewing the cell and organelles.  The kids are making edible cell models.  We're going out to the stream together.  Fun!

Yes, things do seem to be moving slowly.  But, I'm committed to projects; presently, the project or PBL is Watersheds.  The kids did take a microscope quiz which they graded.  I had the kids make edible and class cell models with keys using hard copies of Inside the Cell.  Module 2 has a bacteria diagram; cells are part of Module 6.  I just think the kids should have exposure to cell organelles earlier in the course.

We went to the Creek on the church property to collect water samples.  We made observations, measured turbidity, temperature, and pH at the sight.  We brought water samples back and tested for dissolved oxygen, pH (using a different method), nitrates and phosphates with Lamotte water test kits.  The kids still need to learn how to identify benthic macroinvertebrates and use a microscope next time.  But, my big goal is to enfuse this course with loads of practical exoeriences.