DNA Extractions as Recruitment

My advanced Biotechnology students have begun a new project based unit where they have to recruit 8th graders from Le Conte into STEM by demonstrating a very entertaining DNA extraction. The students began by researching what type of things they can use for DNA extraction. They have performed DNA extraction from their own cells three times before, but now they are branching out! They also have to figure out how to make their demonstration both entertaining and educational. The students were very excited to perform extractions with many different types of fruits and vegetables - all of which they discovered from their own research.

STEM Awards Ceremony

Awards were given for exemplary students at an Advisory assembly today. Results of the STEM student officers election were also announced.

Kenneth Chancey, President

Wendy Mejia, vice-President

Amber Guerra, Secretary

Brian Jaimes, Treasurer

Candy Mendoza, Junior Representative

Phasara Khotchasanee, Sophomore Representative

Kimberly Ramirez, Freshman Representative

Congressional Art Contest

Here are two of the entries we submitted for the annual Congressional Art Contest. One is by Alessia Asiedu, and the other is by Chachataporn Kimakorn.

California Science Center field trip

Forty-one students from STEM visited the California Science Center in Exposition Park on Apr 16, 2009. They took part in the CSI exhibit, as well as touring the rest of the museum. Even the teachers got onto the act!

Google Logo Winners

In STEM drawing classes, we worked on the Doodle 4 Google contest, in which we tried to make special Google logos around the idea, "What I Wish For The World". Out of 100 entries, 25 semi-finalists were chosen, voted on by all of the classes, and these 6 were picked as best. They will be entered in the contest and these 6 students will be eligible to win fabulous prizes!

STEM students using phones for Schoolwork?

Today I approached a student during group research time in my Biotechnology class. He and the student next to him where on their phones - and it looked like they were texting. I took his phone and was surprised to see that he was actually doing research. Not only that - the student next to him was doing research also. At that point - I got so excited that I took photos fo them using their phones in such a productive way. The computer cart upstairs only has 10 computers, and given that my Biotechnology classes are in the upwards of 40, that leaves about one computer for 4 students! These students made good use of technology in a resource limited environment. Now, it is not as easy to make sure that students are on task on their phones as opposed to the laptops - however, just by walking around, I felt that I could keep them accountable. Very cool experience for me overall as a teacher!

stem slideshow

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