From the bench to the Classroom:
Our new contributor is Dr. Kate Beckingham professor of BioSciences at Rice University. She tells us why did she decide to become a scientist, the challenging and rewarding aspects of her research and much more. Dr. Beckingham was involved in the Shuttle Discovery (STS-121) flight experiments testing gravity on the Drosophila’s immune system. We have a lesson plan using the data collected from this project for you to use in class “Immune response to gravity and spaceflight: the space flies story”
The Pedagogical Stop:
Science in Science Education: We discuss the current status and several issues concerning efforts to improve science education by bringing real science to teachers. Specifically we explore Professional Development (PD) programs where teachers and scientists interact.
Microbiology: Bacteria form social communities that organize biofilm production. Can bacteria cooperate and compete?
Stem cell Biology: The essential and exclusive cell communication between stem cells and their niche cells is ensured by novel structures called nanotubules
Ecology: Understanding the symbiotic relationship among corals, algae, and the marine microbiome is central for managing the health of coral reefs.
Medicine: A study reports the development of a promising new drug that targets all the life cycle stages of Plasmodium falciparum
Some of the scientific news are appropriate for classroom instruction so we are adding at the end of some of them (1) How can I use this post for class instruction? (2) Alignments to the standards and (3) If you want to write a lesson plan or have questions & suggestions, ask the Owlet.
Mini-lectures series on Evolution:
Evolution 3 deals with Mendel’s theory of particulate inheritance, the Laws of inheritance, and genetic variability. Next mini-lecture will explore phenotypic variability.