mom sectionmom sectionLeafminers are a major pest of many plants. In most situations, leafminers do not affect plant health or cause damage that is serious enough to warrant chemical controls. However, leafminer feeding can cause extensive cosmetic damage to your plants. Chemical insecticides may effectively control leafminers, but they also kill off beneficial insects such as pollinators. Instead, reduce leafminer populations using biological controls, such as parasitic wasps and beneficial nematodes.
Skeleton hand crafts are a great opportunity to really get into the spirit of a time like Halloween. Make skeleton hand crafts with help from a graphic designer and illustrator in this free video clip.
Molecular biology technologists are science technicians who work in the specialized field of molecular biology. In 2010, nearly 73,000 individuals nationwide were employed as biological science technicians throughout the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average annual salary for those working in this field was approximately $42,000 per year in 2010. Becoming a technician in this field requires a strong grounding in basic biology, but it also requires a technical background as well.
A cat's face has 24 stiff, wiry whiskers -- typically 12 on each side of the nose -- as well as whiskers above the eyes and around the chin and mouth. These whiskers, or vibrissae, provide an acute sense of touch to a cat that is unparalleled. While a cat can maintain its balance without its whiskers, their loss makes it nearly impossible to do so because of the varying functions performed by whiskers, and their interaction with the cat's central nervous system.
In the online game “Poptropica,” Cryptids Island is an area that challenges you to solve tasks related to mythological creatures. In this section of the game, you will meet and assist Mr. Mews, a character who has devoted his life to searching for legendary monsters. After collecting a patch fur from an unidentified creature, you must return the sample to Mr. Mews. The researcher will ask you to extract DNA from the fur. The extraction process requires you to follow a very specific procedure.
Replication of chromosomes, messenger RNA processing, translation of proteins, and critical decisions in early stages of development depend on the interaction of DNA, RNA and proteins. These interactions are the basic biological processes of gene expression and protein synthesis. Scientists often use Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the same species of yeast used in baking and brewing, to study the genes that code for specific proteins and analyze the interactions between proteins and other molecules. The yeast three-hybrid system is one of three variants of the yeast two-hybrid system used to study these interactions.
Students are often required to create cell models as they learn about plant and animals. Cytoplasm is a gel-like substance that fills a cell. It is clear, but must be colored or outlined with color in some way on a plant cell model so that a student is able to indicate where it belongs. Many craft items work well for creating cytoplasm and give students a few options for finding the one that fits with the project.
Nothing will ruin your sandwich quicker than a piece of flimsy, wilted lettuce. Use a few special techniques to freshen up your salad greens and prevent them from wilting in the fridge. The Food Network's Alton Brown recommends wrapping your salad leaves in a slightly moist paper towel to keep them fresh and crispy. The paper towel will help to absorb any excess moisture from your salad leaves and keep them preserved throughout the storage process.
Several different file types earn the description of “DNA file” because they all use the "DNA" file extension. As several different names, terms or phrases can be abbreviated to the same three letters, it is common that different file types share the same file extension. The "DNA" file extension is applied to seven different file formats.
Cells are the building blocks of life. Unlike plant cells, animal cells do not have chloroplasts or cell walls. However, the rest of the parts of cells are the same: cell membrane, cytoplasm, nucleus, vacuoles, endoplasmic reticulum, ribosomes, golgi apparatus and mitochondria. A simple model of an animal cell helps people visualize these complex structures and understand how they all fit together. Even though cells are incredibly small, a model made with nonperishable items will show a larger, exaggerated view of the structural parts.
The genes that mold us are made of deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA. This building block of the human body is a fundamental part of heredity, as children receive DNA from each of their parents when they are conceived. The DNA molecules form a double-helix structure, twisting around each other and connected by a series of nucleotides, or bases. Students can create a DNA model using wire hangers, shaping them into the famous double helix.
A plant cell is made up of a variety of different, unique parts. Learn about drawing and identifying parts of a plant cell with help from an artist with many years of drawing training and experience in this free video clip.
Deoxyribonucleic acid, commonly known as DNA, is the most complex biological molecule on Earth. The genetic information encoded in the long molecular strands holds the code for every living creature on the planet. But in DNA's complexity, there is simplicity; four molecules--adenine and guanine and thymine and cytosine--form pairs. It is the order of these A/T and C/G pairs that encodes genetic information and these pairs are linked together by a deoxyribose sugar/phosphate chain and twisted to form the long double-helix chain. Creating a DNA model using foam balls can help make the complex understandable.
Biology teachers introduce and teach concepts that involve living organisms and how they respond to the surrounding environment. Biology teachers typically use laboratory experiments and written exercises to educate students. The salary of a first-year biology teacher usually depends on the grade she teaches, not the subject she teaches. The first-year salary for a biology teacher is typically the same as teachers in other subjects.
DNA structures are very complex diagrams that exist at a molecular level. Draw DNA structures with help from an artist in this free video clip.
In 2010, Tulsa World reported that the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Tulsa was growing algae – which they nicknamed “green crude” – in petri dishes. A research program at the university was investigating whether algae had the potential to become an energy source superior to ethanol and other biofuels. You may not have the staff and resources to realize such scientific breakthroughs, but you can still grow algae in a petri dish as a project suitable for science fairs and other chemistry assignments.
Children learn more effectively when given hands-on activities and projects to complete that are not lecture-based. For example, provide kids with a project constructing a 3-D model of a plant cell out of a few basic arts and crafts materials instead of teaching them about plant anatomy from a book. Make 3-D plant cell models even more educational by inserting labels into the cell parts to show the children what the different cell parts are called.
The butterfly is an incredibly fascinating insects to most kids. Because its lifecycle is so visible, it makes a perfect subject for introducing them to biology and metamorphosis. Your students will throw themselves into activities that teach them about the life of the humble caterpillar and its reemergence as a beautiful butterfly.
DNA, the genetic code that makes up who you are, is passed down to you by your parents and ancestors. A combination of four chemicals connect to form these long strands of information and give you each of your characteristics, like a genetic fingerprint. DNA is shaped like a twisted ladder. The DNA that comes from individual sets of parents combines in a slightly different manner for every person, even identical twins. Genetic researchers can trace some DNA that comes through the mitochondria found outside the nucleus.
Creating a model plant cell provides a student with the hands-on opportunity to learn more about the tiny components, or organelles, inside each of these intricate building blocks of plants. This simple project made with ordinary household materials makes it easy to visualize a plant cell's 11 components on a larger scale.
Scientists have the ability to sequence the DNA molecule; in other words, they can determine the order of nucleotide bases in any given molecule. Sequencing the DNA molecule may be the first of a number of steps needed to figure out how the specific nucleotides in a DNA molecule interact with each other and code for different characteristics in an organism. The process of sequencing DNA is rather involved, but automatic DNA sequencers are minimizing the human involvement needed, for at least part of the process.
Mushrooms are both a nutritious food and an educational science project. Although they resemble plants to some degree, mushrooms are really fungi. The life cycle of a mushroom starts with a microscopic spore, which grows into hair-like hypha, which in turn become known as mycelium, and finally develop into the familiar stem and cap. Mushroom growers start cultures in petri dishes of agar, a gelatinous substance derived from red algae, in order to isolate samples with the most desirable traits and ensure a good crop.
When you are teaching elementary-aged children about animal anatomy and microbiology, you may feel frustrated trying to maintain their attention if you simply lecture to them from a book. One alternative is to demonstrate a scientific concept by making a hands-on craft together. For example, show the children how to construct a 3-D animal cell using basic materials, such as clay. Making a 3-D model enables children to look inside the cell to inspect and identify all of the different parts of the animal cell.
From the song “Dem Dry Bones” to paleontology and murder mysteries, skeletons are a part of different aspects of ancient and modern times. Skeletons are one way to create a festive Halloween feel or to decorate a biology lab. Make your own skeleton decorations as a Halloween craft by making mini skeletons that are flat and possess moving parts.
High-profile news stories and TV shows thrust DNA analysis into the spotlight, giving the work of DNA analysts plenty of public attention. DNA analysts catalog and investigate samples brought from crime scenes and victims. Their results may be used in criminal trials. The profession of DNA analysis has several advantages that appeal to individuals entering such a career.
A mask of a frog or a toad both have similar construction patterns, but the results are varied enough to make both animals recognizable. The coloring is what really sets them apart when you make the mask, but in reality the two animals are structurally different. While making the masks, talk about the differences between the animals with the individuals crafting the mask. Explain that there are plenty of physiological differences between the two animals that makes them their own individual species.
Building a model of a DNA helix in class will help students visualize DNA's construction and learn about the life-giving genetic code. Using some simple items like toothpicks, plastic foam balls, craft paint and pipe cleaners, you can represent all of the parts that make a DNA helix in a classroom setting. With two colors of balls representing the sugar and phosphate components of DNA and four colors of pipe cleaners representing the four base codes of DNA, you can quickly and easily assemble your model.
Cells are the building blocks of living organisms. The nucleus, ribosomes and mitochondria all play pivotal roles in processing nutrients and protecting genetic material to give health and unique characteristics to plants, animals, insects and humans. Outside the biology class laboratory, you can demonstrate cell structure by making a three-dimensional replica with common household items. A 3-D plant cell replica can be used as either a teaching aid or the basis for a science fair project.
One of the best ways to deconstruct and understand animal cells is to build them yourself. You can easily make an accurate animal cell model out of different colored clays. The parts to an animal cell include the cytoplasm, organelles, nucleus, ribosomes and cell membrane. Using a different color and shape for each of these pieces makes them easily identifiable. Use an accurate animal cell diagram to guide your creative process.
In scientific terms, an organelle is a unit within a plant or animal cell that performs a specific function. To understand how an organelle fits within the cell, consider them similar to the organs in a human. Just as humans have organs, such as a heart, lungs and liver, that perform vital functions, cells have what are essentially tiny organs that perform vital functions for them. Although animal and plant cells are similar in many ways, they also have a few important differences.
Models of DNA help students understand the components that make up DNA, and how those components are formed. DNA models are both a visual aid and a hands-on activity, appealing to different types of learners. A wide range of materials can be used to create models of DNA, including candy. Candy DNA models are fun for students to create and can serve as a reward, a tasty treat after the lesson is over.
It is only known that dinosaurs existed because their fossilized remains have been found. These remains are either discovered accidentally, usually when some upheaval has brought them to the surface, or by design when teams of interested investigators search by digging in areas where they are likely to be found. One obvious interest is when dinosaurs lived, but accuracy can be problematic.
Cells are the building blocks of life, working together to ensure that complex organisms, like human beings, are able to exist. The cells that make up animals are called animal cells. Every animal cell contains numerous, specialized parts, called organelles, which help protect and nourish the cell. One tasty way to showcase the animal cell and its organelles is to bake a cake model of one.
Photosynthesis is a natural process which occurs in plant cells, through which plants create the sustenance required to survive. Photosynthesis is an essential process for life on planet earth as we know it as plants exist in a symbiotic relationship with respiratory animals that enables both types of life to persist.
DNA models replicate the chemical molecule called deoxyribonucleic acid that is often referred to as the "blueprint" of life, which all organisms carry. The models portray the two strands that form a double helix and are comprised of sugar and phosphate components, as well "rungs" made of adenine, thymine, cytosine and guanine. Make a DNA model that can twist using bendable wire that is sturdy enough to support the weight of decorative beads.
Biological anthropologists combine social science with biology to examine the physical characteristics of people along with their cultural patterns. Another name for a biological anthropologist is a physical anthropologist. Studies may focus on human genetics, primate behavior, law enforcement forensics or a combination of areas. A biological anthropologist may conduct field research or laboratory research.
Animal cells contain microscopic organs which merit scientific study. Because animal cells are so small, it is necessary to study them through the use of large-scale models. Jello is an excellent component for such a model of an animal cell. Its consistency resembles that of cytoplasm, the thick fluid in which all of a cell's organelles are suspended.
All living things are made up of thousands of cells, each with a distinct and vital task. Cells are split into two different classes, prokaryotic and eukaryotic. Prokaryotic cells do not have a membrane-bound nucleus and exist in bacteria. Eukaryotic cells have a nucleus that carries genetic information, and this type of cell is what makes up plants and animals. These cells work to maintain the life of the plant by utilizing water and sun for photosynthesis, being a catalyst for reproduction, and protecting the plant against invaders.
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is found inside the nucleus -- and in humans and other complex organisms, in the mitochondria -- of every cell that makes up every living thing on the planet. DNA contains the instructions, or chromosomes, necessary to make each organism according to its species and the hereditary combination that makes individual organisms unique. These instructions tell the cell DNA how to produce proteins, which are the building blocks of all living material.
Skeleton crafts remain one of the most popular Halloween items in demand. Skeletons contain their own personalities. Depending on how it is decorated, a skeleton manifests humor, scariness, silliness or any number of qualities its creator gives it. Put a skeleton together in any number of poses, or change it frequently as the mood strikes. Hang skeletons in a window, on a wall or the outside of the door. No matter where they are, skeletons are guaranteed to delight those who view them.
DNA is a topic that some people have difficulty understanding. Kinesthetic and visual learners will understand DNA more easily if they are provided with a model. DNA takes the shape of a twisted ladder called a double helix. The rungs of the ladder are made of nucleotides, which are also called complementary base pairs or nitrogenous bases. The sides of the ladder are composed of an alternating pattern of a sugar (ribose) and a phosphate. Once you learn the basics, DNA is simple to understand.
Building a model of the familiar double helix structure of DNA is a mainstay of the science curriculum in schools. From paper to candy to beads and blocks, students can use various materials to create artistic and creative models. Constructing these models teaches the students about DNA's unique shape, and about the four chemical bases that make up the structure as well as their correct pairings.
Cells are microscopic parts of living creatures. They are the smallest part of a living creature that carries its DNA and can reproduce itself. Smaller parts of living creatures, such as the organelles inside these cells, are not viable when separated from one another. Plant cells are different from animal cells because rigid structures, known as cell walls, surround their internal organs. Since cells are too small to see, large-scale models made from household materials are useful for educational purposes.
Plants, animals and all living organisms are composed of basic building blocks called cells. For living organisms, the cells keep them functioning properly. The cells in your body all serve different functions, depending on where they are located. The cells in your skin, liver, eyes and brain work so each part of the body can do its function, and all of the parts can work together. One of the main jobs of the cell is organizing the functions of all parts of that cell's particular purpose. While plant and animal cells contain different parts, they have some parts in common.
Hair color, eye color, body structure – all of that and more is determined by genetics and DNA. (ref 4) Deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, is the genetic “blueprint” that all living organisms carry within. Information contained and distributed by this blueprint is necessary to both develop life through reproduction, and to maintain. Building a DNA model helps children and adults learn what DNA is, and what part each segment plays.
Creating a candy model of DNA using gum drops gives students an opportunity to review what they have learned about the structure of DNA. DNA is composed of chains of phosphate and sugar molecules, and four bases: adenine, thymine, cytosine and guanine. Two chains of phosphate and sugar molecules are connected by pairs of the bases, like rungs on a ladder. The strand of DNA is shaped like a double helix, which looks like a twisted, spiral ladder.
Flipbooks can be applied to almost any biology lesson, instantly livening up the curriculum. Creating a flipbook engages both visual and kinesthetic learners, making it an appropriate assignment for enriching biology curriculum. Students can recreate almost any biological process or biological activity through a flipbook. This activity appeals to students of varied skill level. For students with limited skills, provide them with images for their flipbooks and help them to assemble it. Older and higher skilled students can create their own flipbooks using basic instructions.
Petri dish projects are popular science fair experiments in which young scientists grow bacteria in a dish of agar, a gelatinous substance that allows bacteria to grow without being eaten by it. The final process of this experiment is to let the bacteria grow in a warm environment at 100 degrees Fahrenheit for at least a few days. One unprofessional but common method of doing this is to let the petri dish sit on a windowsill or in a warm cabinet, but a more reliable method is to create a small incubator.
"Pokemon White" is a fifth-generation Pokemon game released for the Nintendo DS in 2010. The player explores a large world, attempting to collect every kind of Pokemon available in the game. By finding fossils scattered throughout the game, players can extract the Pokemon inside. These Pokemon are old and powerful, usually rock type and can learn attacks that no other Pokemon can learn, making them a valuable addition to any Pokemon team.
Students needing something beyond the mnemonic "IP-MAT" (Interphase, Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase and Telephase) for remembering the order of the phases of mitosis and meiosis will benefit from playing games that integrate the visual representations of each phase of cell division and the vocabulary words associated with the process.
