For this mini-project, students were asked to research how different variables affect wildfires, then build models demonstrating each of the variables. Based on our findings from our models, we were able to gain accurate, firsthand information about the topic we studied.
Mountain Studies Institute Fire Ecology Field Study
For this field study on October 6th, we went on a tour through the 416 Fire burn scar area with the Colorado Mountain Studies Institute. During this tour, we learned about how different species have adapted to an environment that is prone to wildfires and how the health of the ecosystem surrounding the Durango area relies on wildfires.
Vocabulary of an Ecologist
Throughout this semester, students have been gathering ecological vocabulary terms to incorporate into our studies, labs, projects, etc. We were asked to use both personal experiences and in-class background knowledge to help us build accurate and comprehendible definitions for each of the terms listed on our vocab sheets. This helped us to understand terms used in scientific research as well as helping us to create professional final products.
Fall Project: Feral horses and mustangs in the Southwestern United States
For this portion of our cancer biology unit final project, my partner and I studied the EGFR protein and how mutations to this protein can cause cancer. We then created a visual model to represent the role the the EGFR protein has within a cell. This was an interesting topic for me because I was able to directly relate our information from our research to the type of cancer that I was studying. We also did our research based on the question "How do genetic risk factors play a role in developing cancer?" This question was interesting to study because it was highly relevant to my personal background of having a family history of cancer. The most challenging part of this project was our utilization of the Makers Lab. This was challenging because there were many logistics that had to be sorted out, and we had to trouble shoot some things with the tools and our products. The most important thing that I learned from this project was that I absorb and understand content best when I can choose my own topic to study. This allows me to become more engaged with what is being taught.