Science 10:  We reviewed sexual reproduction in flowers first, then used Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection to explain how a skunk cabbage might have changed to smell like rotting meat and have remarkably large leaves.  We finished the Replacements Lab, and this was handed in (if not, ensure that it is ready to hand in Monday morning).  In the final minutes we began page 63 # 1-8.

Science 8:  After reviewing the layers of the earth we watched this clip that explains the mechanism for continental drift.  We wrote brief notes on a prepared cross section of tectonic plates, read 17. 4 from a hand-out, and completed page 508 # 1-13 in sentences. This is due Monday.  This clip shows how mountains can form from converging plates.  In the final minutes we reviewed a little of the Periodic Table.

Chemistry 12:  We did the WS titled Minireview of 5.9, then we tried some problems where we had to make our own mini reduction tables.  Due Monday are U5 # 14-16 and 37-41.  Prepare Lab 21C for next week, and spend some time reviewing the rates unit. 

Science 8:  We started with some speed calculations.  We completed Lab 13F from a handout, to learn how earthquake data can help us understanding the structure of the Earth.  After writing brief notes on the Layers of the Earth, we drew a scale diagram of a cross section of the earth ( 1cm = 1000 km).  In the last part of the class we learned about 3 families of rocks:  Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic.  After creating a brief table to compare the 3 types of rocks, we watched this clip about rock families.    Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:    We learned how to balance full redox reactions, and we completed 8 problems from Unit 5 # 24.  In the second half we wrote brief notes on Electrochemical Cells, then we read sections 5.8 and 5.9 and completed U5 # 34-37.  This clip shows how electrochemical cells are made in factories.  We spoke about chemical engineers, structural engineers, civil engineers, millwrights, and machinists.  All the textbook questions are due Friday.  Spare time was spent preparing Lab 21C, our final lab.  Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

 Science 10:  We reviewed some chemistry topics today ( categorizing matter, names/formulas of ionic compounds), then we watched the first 15 minutes of "What Darwin Never Knew".  We used Darwin's key points to explain how beavers may have evolved from its rodent ancestor.  We also tried to explain how the first flying insects evolved from non-flying insect ancestors.   Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log. 

 Science 10:  After going through the Giraffe WS, we watched this clip about natural selection.   We read pages 50 - 54, and wrote brief notes as we read.  We made a place mat with 14 rows, one for each paragraph in the reading, and students were asked to write one key idea for each paragraph. Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log. 

Science 8:  We began with Lab 10D, where we used seismograph data to find the epicenter location on a map of North America.   Discussion questions # 1-5 at the end of the lab procedure are due next class (in sentences).   We also reviewed how to find the density of a solid.  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:    We completed 8 different reactions from Unit 5 # 19, then we finished a WS reviewing Unit 5 sections 5.1 to 5.4.  lab 21D was collected at the end of our class today.  Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

 Science 10:  We had a short discussion about natural selection, and how populations can change over time.  We wrote brief notes on Natural Selection, then we read a short article and completed the Giraff WS.  We also spoke about how final exams are three weeks away and that now is a good time to do some review from the start of the course.

Science 8:  We got our friends who went on the band trip caught up by completing the Epicenter location activity, then starting the Pangaea cut and paste from the USGS.  Science 8 students who were here last week spent the time completing their business letter from Friday.

Chemistry 12:  We started the day with a short review WS on sections 5.1 to 5.3, then time was provided to complete all the Qs and FUQs from Lab 21D.   We finished off with balancing half reactions.   

 Friday, May 23rd

Chemistry 12:  We used the Table of Reductions to determine if several proposed reactions were spontaneous or not.  After reading section 5.3 we completed U5 # 7-14, which is due on Monday.  Remaining time was spent completing Lab 21D - the questions and follow-up questions will be due Tuesday.  

Science 10:  We began by reviewing the structure of DNA and how proteins are made by ribosomes in the nucleus.  Everyone was given a gene sequence, then we transcribed the DNA sequence into an mRNA sequence, then translated the protein by using the Codon chart and writing the order of the amino acids.  We caused a few mutations - one that caused a slight change, and another that caused a catastrophic change.  We worked on two genetics review practice quizzes and answer keys were provided for checking your work.  This clip shows how populations change through time.  Spend some time reviewing for your favorite final exam.

Science 8:  We practiced locating an epicenter on a map again, to get really good at it, then we started to write a business letter, but this is not due Monday.

Science 8:  We started with a short review of Seismology (focus, epicenter, seismograph, seisomogram, P & S waves), then we practiced drawing perfect circles with a compass.  We used this data to find the epicenter on the map found on page 2.   This video clip explains it quite well.  In the second half we learned about the idea of Continental Drift.  We read this article and completed the tables found within the article.  We also completed the cut and paste found at the end of the article to make a map of Pangea.   All instructions are written on the cut and paste page.   On your completed Pangaea map ensure that you have a clear title at the top, a key to show the colors and fossil names, and label the two ancient waterbodies (Tethys Sea and Panthallasic Ocean).  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:  We completed Lab 21D today, and did a short quiz on Oxidation Number in the last 15 minutes (page 194 # 5 b,c,d; find all the ON's).   Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

Science 10:  We started with brief notes on Protein Synthesis, and we used our Codon Chart on our databooklet to create a protein from the sequence of bases in a gene.  Read this article to learn about protein synthesis.  We watched this clip about proteins being made in the cyctoplasm.  Next we reviewed human female and male reproductive anatomy by completing a WS, reading section 16.4 from the old Probe 10, and completing Review 16. 4 # 1-7 (in high quality point form).  16.4, as well as page 153 # 1-25 in the old Bio 11 Text are due next class.  Also, next day we will have a quiz on reproductive anatomy.  In the last 15 minutes we discussed mutations, and how they can be beneficial, neutral, or harmful.  This clip shows how enzymes are used to limit mutations in DNA.  Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log.

May 20, 2025

Science 10:  We completed the Genetics Review WS, then we learned about Protein Synthesis.  We performed an amazing one act play, with terrific actors such as our Ribosome Connor or the three tRNA's Aidan, Gwen, and Ivo.  The mRNA strand and DNA strands were particularly skillful at ensuring accurate base pairing.  This clip shows a clear animation of Protein synthesis.  Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log. 

Science 8:  Today we wrote the Cells and Systems test, then we spent time finishing Activities 11E and 11F (on Seismology) from the old Science Probe 9.  We finished by naming all the mountain peaks visible from the fields at RSS:  Begbie, MacPherson, Boulder, Kirkup, Copeland, Frisby, Mt. Revelstoke, MacKenzie, Cartier).  From this location in Revelstoke, google maps gives a nice view of many of the peaks.  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:  We took brief notes on Redox Reactions, then completed the Oxidation Number WS, which is due on Thursday.  We will do Lab 21D on Thursday - please have your lab prepared.   Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

 Science 10:  We completed a practice genetics quiz after going through the Genetics WS from Tuesday, then we read pages 33-38 and completed page 39 # 1-11 (half in sentences).   We also found all the genotypes in Figures 2,3,and 4 on the Pedigree Lab WS.  In the second half we hand a discussion about variation, and we started the Variation mini lab.  We measured Scarlet Runner Bean seed length, and plotted number vs length.   Here is our data:  Plot a Number v Length using bar graph format.  No work is due on Tuesday - you will be given some time to finish the above items.  

Length (mm).        Number of Beans

    12                                3

    13                                0

    14                                1

    15                                5

    16                                2

    17                                7

    18                                19

    19                                14

    20                                14

    21                                9

    22                                11

    23                                10

    24                                0

 Science 8:  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:    First we completed the Acids and Bases Test.  In the second half we wrote brief intro notes on Electrochemistry and looked at some slides of cells, batteries, fuel cells, and solar arrays.  Due Tuesday are Unit 5 # 1 & 2.  We also prepared Lab 21D.  Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

Science 8:  We reviewed the oceans and continents first, then we spent time reviewing the acquired immune response.  We read pages 110 - 114, and wrote brief notes onto the last panel of our flippit.  This video shows how vaccines work.   We spoke a little about considering the source of the videos that we watch.  What is the motivation for creating such a video?  Is a scientific viewpoint being offered?  Are the ideas based on evidence? .Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Science 10:    We went through the answer to Review 17.2 from a hand-out, then we learned how to solve genetics problems.   Due next class is the WS titled Genetics Problems.  This clip shows Mendelian genetics in a simple way.  Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log.

Chemistry 12:    After a short review we spent time on the Acids and Bases practice Test.  Click here to see the key to the Practice Test.  We will complete a unit test next class on Unit 4.  Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

Science 8:  We reviewed the Innate and Acquired immune response first, then we watched this TED Ed clip about the immune system.  We completed page 109 # 2-13 in fine sentences, and remaining time was spent completing the Immune System Flippit.  In the final minutes we reviewed the oceans and continents.  Due Tuesday is the flippit, and about 10 more minutes will be given for page 109.  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Science 10:  First we self marked page 21 # 1-15 from a key.  We learned about Mendel's experiments and wrote brief notes.  We read pages 26- 29, and completed # 1-6 from the hand-out in sentences.   In the last 20 minutes we drew out the stages of meiosis, to show the Law of Segregation.  Tomorrow we will watch TED Ed video on Mendelian genetics.  Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log.

Chemistry 12:  We started with the Buffers mini review, then wrote brief note on Environment Chemistry.  This clip describes ocean acidification.  We spent the rest of the time working on the Acids and Bases Practice Test.  Test on Wednesday.  Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

Friday, May 9th 

Science 10: We reviewed sexual reproduction (sex cells, diploid, haploid, zygote), then we wrote brief notes on DNA replications.  We read pages 16-18, then finished page 21 # 1-15, which is due on Monday. This video shows DNA replication.   Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log.

Science 8:  Today we started with a review of the respiratory and digestive systems, then we finished the immune system flippit.  Read page 100 - 1-5 and write brief note onto your flippit.  The subsections are:  4 ways to transfer pathogens, first line of defense, 2nd LOD Innate Immune Response, 2nd LOD Acquired Immune Response.  We watched this clip that shows a pathogen and the immune response.  In the last few minutes we looked at Williamson's Lake pond water creatures again.  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:  We started with a mini review of Indicators, then we made a buffer and wrote brief notes about what we did.  Buffers are solutions that contain an equal and substantial concentrations of a  weak acid and its weak conjugate base.  Due Monday is Unit 4 # 131 - 139.  Acid-Base Unit Test on Wednesday next week- everyone has their practice test now.  Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

Science 10:  We completed the Astronomy Test today.  After the Test was complete students were asked to log into a laptop and navigate to Education Planner to research a training program specified by Mr. Gale.  Be able to answer these questions about the training program:

1)  What high school requirements are needed to get into this program?

2)  Describe the training program. 

3)  What careers are possible with this training program?

4)  How much salary do workers in this sector make each year?

5)  Is the work relevant to rural settings, urban settings, or both?

For Grades 10s and 11s, it is Career Day on Tuesday - everyone received their individualized ticket with the day's schedule.  Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log.

Science 8:  We reviewed the graph of Vital Capacity vs height to see if Mr. Gale's hypothesis is supported by the data or refuted by the data.  We also viewed another scatter plot with data from a large sample size. (n-150). We brainstormed 3 other hypotheses that could be tested using a spirometer.  After writing brief note on the Circulatory System we read pages 82 - 85 and added page 85 # 1-5 to page 91 # 1-5.  All this is due Tuesday.  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:  We learned how to find pH in solutions of weak acids, by starting with a few problems about soft drinks (H2CO3) and peroxide solution (H2O2).  Due Wednesday is U4 # 74 - 79 and the fun Quiz on Hydrolysis.    Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

Science 10:  We completed the Astronomy Practice Test first, and the answers were on the side counter.  Mr. Gale marked the written response section.  Astronomy Test on Monday.  We used the last 20 minutes to finish "Giants", about the Voyager unmanned space craft.  Click here to see the Sci10 assignment log.

Science 8:  We created a graph of Vital Capacity vs height to see if Mr. Gale's hypothesis is supported by the data or refuted by the data.  The graph is not due Monday.  In the last part of class we learned the anatomy of the human heart using a simple 4 chamber diagram.  Due Monday is page 91 # 1-5.  Click here to see the Sci8 assignment log. 

Chemistry 12:  We completed the Hydrolysis Review WS, then a pH and pOH Mini-review WS.  At 2:30 we wrote our Lab 20G conclusions, and the lab was handed in.  If you were away, your Lab 20G with a conclusion is due on Monday.   Click here to see the Ch12 assignment log.

 Chemistry 12:  We reviewed pH and pOH first by doing Unit 4 # 55 together, verbally.  We took brief notes on Hydrolysis, then read 4.13 and completed U4 # 69, 71, 72.  We generated a brief outline of a conclusion for Lab 20G, and on Friday you will be given 30 minutes to write a conclusion before the lab is handed in.  You have to write your conclusion in class, then you'll hand in the lab.  We finished with partial neutralizations - due next class are Unit 4 # 58-60, 64, and 65.  

Science 8:   Today we started by marking page 81 # 3-7, 13, and 16.  We learned about the Respiratory System by completing the anatomy diagram (on the back of the Digestive System sheet), reading pages 90 - 92, and completing page 91 # 1-5 in sentences.  Everyone measured their lung volume (tidal volume, actually - some of the air cannot be exhaled) with a spirometer.  Mr. Gale's hypothesis is that tall people tend to have larger lung volume.  This clip explains how the respiratory system works.  In the second half we made a table to record the nutrients in some food items.  The column headings were :  food name, serving size, food energy, protein, simple carbs, complex carbs, fiber, unsaturated fats, saturated fats, water.  Every amount is recorded in grams, except energy (Calories).  We used food labels on packages of food to determine the nutrient values.  We did 5 different items:  Avocado, Breakfast item, Dinner item, Snack, 1 Choice item.