Class 10/7/08

Today's class period began with answering questions pertaining to assignments due. We also discussed upcoming events such as the science fair we will be judging in Elk Point in November. We then discussed our upcoming midterm project. This information pertained to the content we were to choose, the standards we were going meet, expectations and more. After addressing these two topics, we moved onto a power point presentation over safety considerations for science labs which is extremely important to be aware of when conducting any labs! Highlights of these notes included information stating, "Teachers should explain the need for protecting clothing, eyes, use of safety equipment, reading directions, and interpreting symbols". Also, Dr. E stressed the importance of NEVER leaving the classroom during any form of lab activity. If we need to talk with someone have them enter the classroom. Another important note that Dr. E informed us was that many safety issues can be eliminated by using organization or be organized. Following this discussion, Dr. E provided us with a website including examples for teaching science safety. Next we began our lab which focused on perception in which we learned is how you perceive, and how your body reacts to perception. We were provided with a lab manual to instruct us on how to complete the lab. We first took a pencil and poked it through a note card. We then used a mirror to look into to guide our writing. We then attempted to write our names, fill our a sheet that Dr. E printed off with different shapes for to try to create and more. This lab was extremely interesting. Before we began we thought it would be extremely easy. However, once we started, we realized it was very hard. The focus of this lab was for us to understand that learning is enhanced through repetition. Also, that the sensory input that results in the most effective memory retention is different for different people, that memory is enhanced by active firsthand experience, multiple senses, and emotional management, and more. As a class, we were able to gain an understanding for this information through completing the lab activity.