Investigating Patterns Using Analyzing Digital Images (ADI) Software

The mean and variation of a population are easily seen by graphing the number of individuals that have a trait of a given value. In this experiment, we will investigate color variation found in a mealworm population using ADI. In this investigation, we will use digital images and ADI to measure the increased surface area created by villi located in the small intestines

Branching in Nature

Science Frameworks Alignment: Overall, the key criterion of science is that it provide a clear, rational, and succinct account of a pattern in nature. This account must be based on data gathering and analysis and other evidence obtained through direct observations or experiments, reflect inferences that are broadly shared and communicated, and be accompanied by a model that offers a naturalistic explanation expressed in conceptual, mathematical, and/or mechanical terms. Identify the general functions of the major systems of the human body (digestion, respiration, reproduction, circulation, excretion, protection from disease, and movement, control, and coordination) and describe ways that these systems interact with each other </ul

Atomic Force Microscopes

PowerPoint overview. A student activity that builds an atomic force microscope model

Wrinkling in Nature

This lab experience is separated into four investigative segments: Human saliva and enzymes Osmosis and Dialysis Tubing Analyzing dry and imbibed weights of wrinkled and smooth pea seeds Putting it All Together, What makes Wrinkled Peas

2019 Patterns Around Us Handout

This is a FREE two-day program designed for Middle and High School General Science, Biology, Physics, Technology/Engineering teachers. It is funded by the National Science Foundation.Space is limited, so apply soon! Some limited funding is available for overnight stay.“Science may be described as the attempt to give good accounts of the patterns in nature. The result of scientific investigation is an understanding of natural processes.... Overall, the key criterion of science is that it provides a clear, rational, and succinct account of a pattern in nature....” Massachusetts State Frameworks for Science and Technology.Participants will explore the processes of pattern formation in biological and physical systems, and learn how to recognise, analyse and predict (RAP) patterns based on this understanding. The instructional leaders will include Prof. Benjamin Davidovitch, UMass Physics; Prof. Narayanan Menon, UMass Physics; Jennifer Welborn, Amherst Regional Middle School; Wayne Kermenski, Marlboro Elementary Schoo

STEM DIGITAL and ADI in the Classroom

Applications of ADI by students at Amherst Regional Middle Schoo

CO2 Diffusion Through Gelatin Experiment

An example of measuring lengths

Using ADI to Quantify a Color Change In Crayfish

Do Crayfish Change Color If Their Environment Changes? A Guided Inquiry Lab for 7th grade Life Science Background: There is anecdotal evidence from bass fisherman that crayfish are able to change color depending on their surroundings. A (cursory) literature review of this phenomenon showed that no formal research has been done in this area. Students had an additional informal lesson about research funding (or lack thereof) because of this finding. Students designed and conducted a controlled experiment to see the effect of changing environment color on crayfish color. ADI was used to quantify a color change

Human Variation in Skin Color and Race as a Social Construct

This lesson is part of evolution unit which follows heredity and genetics The lesson is interdisciplinary in nature in that I discuss the concept of race as a social construct and the idea that there are “black, white, red, yellow” skinned people is something that people developed. It is not based on biology. Race groupings are human-made groups. Students first learn about mixing light and how to determine black and white from an ADI analysis. They learn that red and green = yellow, etc. They then photograph each other’s forearms and analyze the images using ADI. We then discuss skin color as an adaptive advantage. I reinforce the idea that people’s skin color (before there was sunscreen, folic acid, and Vitamin D supplements) was an adaptation which enabled people to survive. I point out to the students that they come from a long line of WINNERS (otherwise they wouldn’t be here