Ecology

We are currently studying the first of 2 units on ecology. Our first unit focuses on biotic and abiotic factors, limiting factors, biomes and niches. Below are some vusual flashcards to help you study. Scroll over to stop the slide show and advance at your own speed. A study guide and online flashcards can be found under "Important links" to the right.

Never Give Up

I saw this video and thought it was very inspiring. It made me think about life and the choices I make each day. Take a look and let me know what you think.

Landforms

We have recently been studying landforms in class. To help us remember some key ideas, we sang the Landform Song. Check out these students' variations of the tune...

Erosion

Last week we started learning about weathering, erosion and deposition. Weathering is the process that breaks down rock and other material at Earth's surface. Erosion moves weathered material from one place to another. Deposition is the process where sediment is set down at a new location. (Go Team!)

Running water is the dominant process that shapes the landscape, including California's topography. We modeled erosion by rivers in class. Students were able to observe oxbow lakes, alluvial fans and deltas. Check out the pictures below.

Topography

This week we started a new unit on maps. Most of our time will be spent looking at topographic maps. Topographic maps tell us about the shape of the Earth. We can see steep slopes, gentle slopes, valleys, ridges, hilltops and more. In addition to natural features, cultural (man-made) features are also placed on these maps. Below is a topographic map of the Travis Ranch area. This will be a very short unit. A quiz is scheduled for next week... February 12.