Virtual Microscopes in 6th Grade Science

Mr. Hardesty is introducing microscope skills to his sixth grade science students with the help of a virtual microscope.  As part of their exploration of cell theory,;differences between Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes students need to learn how to work a microscope to examine the specimens.  Using this website, students learn to use the different adjustments of the microscope in order to get the best picture possible.    Images are then recorded by drawing them on to their assignment paper.  This is in preparation for bringing out the microscopes in class on Friday so students will have some understanding on how to work the microscope to be able to master the unit objectives.

Texas EcoRegions Project

Seventh grade students recently finished a project on the Ecoregions of Texas.  The students spent some time on the computers researching their regions to find information about the geography, physical features, food web, the impact of weathering erosion and deposition.   Students were given options on how to report their information back to the class.  Choices included powerpoint, prezi, animations and interactive virtual posterboards.




for mrs. billings
by: 111cents

Career Exploration in 7th Grade

Seventh grade students have been spending time in the computer labs with Mrs. Leverette, the 7th grade counselor, to explore colleges and future careers using Career Cruiser.  They are learning what it takes to get into college and  what will make their application stand out by participating in volunteer activities and college prep.  For more information about what you can do for college and career readiness check out the counselor's webpage at: http://teacherweb.com/TX/RidgeviewMiddleSchool/CounselingDepartment/links1.aspx

Science Uses Technology

Working with online simulations helps student better understand concepts being taught in their science classes.  Students in several science classes today used the website, Explore Learning,  to examine the structure of an atom in 8th grade and the concepts of friction in 7th grade.  As they went through the simulations students were asked to record their observations and draw conclusions on what they were observing.