83Science

Relative Dating Lab

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-18T07:02:59-04:00

Today in class, we completed the sequence of events lab using this linkviewer.

For homework, please complete the second of many quick REGENTS PREP HOMEWORK QUIZZES. We will have one due just about every day through the rest of the year.

Here is the second quiz: REGENTS PREP QUIZ: HUMIDITY AND DEWPOINT (Please enter your answers in Engrade.)

In preparation for our speaker, Mr. John Noble Wilford, please explore his work using the links on this page. For extra credit, submit questions you would like to ask Mr. Wilford next week using the form on this page.

REGENTS REVIEW PRACTICE TEST DUE DATES
Period 1
I will check August 2007 on Monday, May 21.

Period 2
I will check August 2007 on Tuesday, May 22.

Period 8
I will check August 2007 on Wednesday, May 23.

Period 9
I will check August 2007 on Wednesday, May 23.

REGENTS REVIEW RESOURCES

Sequencing Rock Layers

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-17T07:16:30-04:00

Today in class, we continued working on geologic sequences. Tomorrow, we will complete the sequence analysis lab activity.

For homework, please complete the first of many quick REGENTS PREP HOMEWORK QUIZZES. We will have one due just about every day through the rest of the year.

Here is the first quiz: REGENTS PREP QUIZ: TOPOGRAPHIC MAPS (Please enter your answers in Engrade.)

In preparation for our speaker, Mr. John Noble Wilford, please explore his work using the links on this page. For extra credit, submit questions you would like to ask Mr. Wilford next week using the form on this page.

REGENTS REVIEW PRACTICE TEST DUE DATES
Period 1
I will check August 2007 on Monday, May 21.

Period 2
I will check August 2007 on Tuesday, May 22.

Period 8
I will check August 2007 on Wednesday, May 23.

Period 9
I will check August 2008 on Friday, May 18.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date

REGENTS REVIEW RESOURCES

Relative Dating of Rocks

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-16T06:55:15-04:00

Today in class, we began looking at geologic history and the relative dating of rock layers. For homework, please complete the online geologic history lab. Additionally, please continue working on your practice Regents exams.

In preparation for our speaker, Mr. John Noble Wilford, please explore his work using the links on this page. For extra credit, submit questions you would like to ask Mr. Wilford next week using the form on this page.

REGENTS REVIEW PRACTICE TEST DUE DATES
Period 1
I will check August 2007 on Monday, May 21.

Period 2
I will check August 2008 on Wednesday, May 16.

Period 8
I will check August 2008 on Thursday, May 17.

Period 9
I will check August 2008 on Friday, May 18.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date

REGENTS REVIEW RESOURCES

Test day...

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-15T07:18:15-04:00

Today in class, we took the surface processes test. Grades will be on Engrade this evening.

In preparation for our speaker, Mr. John Noble Wilford, please explore his work using the links on this page. For extra credit, submit questions you would like to ask Mr. Wilford next week using the form on this page.

REGENTS REVIEW PRACTICE TEST DUE DATES
Period 1
I will check August 2007 on Monday, May 21.

Period 2
I will check August 2008 on Wednesday, May 16.

Period 8
I will check August 2008 on Thursday, May 17.

Period 9
I will check August 2008 on Friday, May 18.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date

REGENTS REVIEW RESOURCES

Surface Processes Test Review

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-14T07:01:03-04:00

Today in Class, we reviewed the landscapes lab. Be ready to submit it tomorrow. We also reviewed the practice test in preparation for tomorrow’s chapter test.

In preparation for our speaker, Mr. John Noble Wilford, please explore his work using the links on this page. For extra credit, submit questions you would like to ask Mr. Wilford next week using the form on this page.

SURFACE PROCESSES TEST TOMORROW

REGENTS REVIEW PRACTICE TEST DUE DATES
Period 1
I will check August 2008 on Tuesday, May 15

Period 2
I will check August 2008 on Wednesday, May 16.

Period 8
I will check August 2008 on Thursday, May 17.

Period 9
I will check August 2008 on Friday, May 18.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date

REGENTS REVIEW RESOURCES

New York Landscape Regions

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-11T07:05:44-04:00

Today in class, we completed the landscapes lab using this linkviewer and this lab sheet. For homework over the weekend, please complete the Surface Processes practice test and continue working on your practice Regents exams.

SURFACE PROCESSES TEST on TUESDAY, MAY 15

REGENTS REVIEW PRACTICE TEST DUE DATES
Period 1
I will check August 2008 on Tuesday, May 15

Period 2
I will check August 2008 on Wednesday, May 16.

Period 8
I will check June 2011 on Friday, May 11.

Period 9
I will check June 2011 on Monday, May 14.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date

REGENTS REVIEW RESOURCES

Wind and Gravity

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-09T19:43:11-04:00

Today in class, we looked at the remaining types of erosion including wind and gravity. Here is the linkviewer from class. For homework, please continue work on your practice regents exam, and begin work on the practice test for Tuesday’s Surface Processes test. These flashcards may be helpful in your preparation for Tuesday’s test: Surface Processes Flashcards.

SURFACE PROCESSES TEST on TUESDAY, MAY 15

REGENTS REVIEW PRACTICE TEST DUE DATES
Period 1
I will check August 2008 on Tuesday, May 15

Period 2
I will check August 208 on Wednesday, May 16.

Period 8
I will check June 2011 on Friday, May 11.

Period 9
I will check June 2011 on Monday, May 14.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date

REGENTS REVIEW RESOURCES

Frozen Planet

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-09T07:13:59-04:00

Today in class, we watched excerpts from the BBC documentary “Frozen Planet.” We also reviewed the major concepts associated with glaciers. The quiz you took in your English classes today will be graded and on Engrade by tomorrow.
SURFACE PROCESSES TEST (LAST TEST OF THE YEAR) ON TUESDAY, MAY 15!!

For homework, please continue working on your practice Regents.
REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS (READ CAREFULLY)
Period 1
I will check August 2008 on Tuesday, May 15

Period 2
I will check June 2011 on Thursday, May 10.

Period 8
I will check June 2011 on Friday, May 11.

Period 9
I will check June 2011 on Monday, May 14.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date

Glaciers

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-08T07:06:34-04:00

Today in class, we explored glaciers and how they erode and deposit sediments. Here is the linkviewer from class, and here is the handout.
For homework, please complete these glacier regents questions and enter your answers in Engrade.

MINI-PRACTICE REGENTS THAT COUNTS!! TOMORROW DURING YOUR ENGLISH CLASSES! BRING YOUR ESRT!!

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS (READ CAREFULLY)
Period 1
I will check June 2009, June 2010, and June 2011 on Wednesday, May 9.

Period 2
I will check June 2011 on Thursday, May 10.

Period 8
I will check June 2011 on Friday, May 11.

Period 9
I will check June 2011 on Monday, May 14.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

River Erosion and Deposition

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-06T15:33:03-04:00

Today in class, we began continued at rivers, how they form and evolve, and how they erode and deposit sediment. Here is the linkviewer and here is the handout from last Friday’s class.

Here are some practice Regents questions on river systems (and here is the key). For homework, please answer questions 26-38 and enter your answers in Engrade.

MINI-PRACTICE REGENTS THAT COUNTS!! WEDNESDAY DURING YOUR ENGLISH CLASSES! BRING YOUR ESRT!!

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS (READ CAREFULLY)
Period 1
I will check June 2009, June 2010, and June 2011 on Wednesday, May 9.

Period 2
I will check June 2011 on Thursday, May 10.

Period 8
I will check June 2011 on Friday, May 11.

Period 9
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Tuesday, May 8.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

Rivers

Michael Sammartano — 2012-05-04T07:00:18-04:00

Today in class, we began looking at rivers, how they form and evolve, and how they erode and deposit sediment. Here is the linkviewer from class and here is the handout. Please make sure these are complete and that you have reviewed them for Monday’s class.

Here are some practice Regents questions on river systems (and here is the key).

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS (READ CAREFULLY)
Period 1
I will check June 2009, June 2010, and June 2011 on Wednesday, May 9.

Period 2
I will check June 2011 on Thursday, May 10.

Period 8
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Monday, May 7.

Period 9
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Tuesday, May 8.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

Soil Formation

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-30T07:09:31-04:00

Today in class, we completed a brief look at soil including what it is and how it forms. Here is the link viewer from class. For homework, please make sure you review these notes and complete the associated regents questions. Also, continue working on your practice regents exams according to the schedule below.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS (READ CAREFULLY)
Period 1
I will check June 2009, June 2010, and June 2011 on Wednesday, May 9.

Period 2
I will check June 2009 and June 2010 on Friday, May 4.

Period 8
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Monday, May 7.

Period 9
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Tuesday, May 8.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

Carbonation and Limestone Caves

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-27T07:00:51-04:00

Today in class, we viewed some incredible footage of cave formations which have resulted from the chemical weathering of limestone (oxidation). We also took a brief quiz on weathering.

For homework, please concentrate on your practice regents exams. The schedule can be seen below.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS (READ CAREFULLY)
Period 1
I will check June 2009, June 2010, and June 2011 on Wednesday, May 9.

Period 2
I will check June 2009 and June 2010 on Friday, May 4.

Period 8
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Monday, May 7.

Period 9
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Tuesday, May 8.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

The Impact of Climate on Weathering

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-26T07:08:13-04:00

Today in class, we worked on the Weathering and Climate lab using this LinkViewer and this handout. Be sure to complete this lab and turn it in during class tomorrow. Here are some notes that Mr. Frantzis made up.

Continue working on your practice Regents exams, and take some time to come in at lunch and go over the questions with me.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS (READ CAREFULLY)
Period 1
I will check June 2009, June 2010, and June 2011 on Wednesday, May 9.

Period 2
I will check June 2009 and June 2010 on Friday, May 4.

Period 8
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Monday, May 7.

Period 9
I will check June 2008, June 2009, and June 2010 on Tuesday, May 8.

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

Here is an interesting article that you may want to read: Mining Asteroids.

Physical and Chemical Weathering Examples

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-25T07:55:12-04:00

Today in class, we completed this flowchart of the major types of physical and chemical weathering. For homework, please review this information and complete the regents questions on the back of the page. We will review these questions in class tomorrow.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday, April 26

June 2009 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Friday, April 27
Period 2: Due Monday, April 30
Period 8: Due Tuesday, May 1
Period 9: Due Wednesday, May 2

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

Exploring Geological Mysteries

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-23T10:54:01-04:00

Today in class, we will explore three major geological mysteries from around the United States. The LinkViewer we will use is available here. During the lesson, you will try and solve these mysteries, offering a clear explanation for the events. Each group will submit their theories using the forms linked below.

ENTER YOUR RESPONSE FOR CASE #1: The Old Man of the Mountain

ENTER YOUR RESPONSE FOR CASE #2: The Ground Beneath Your Feet

ENTER YOUR RESPONSE FOR CASE #3: The Tumbling of Ancient Arches

We will review the details of this activity in class tomorrow.

Homework
For homework this evening, please complete these Regents questions, entering you answers in Engrade. Also, continue working on your practice Regents exams. The due date schedule can be seen below.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 2: Due Tuesday, April 24
Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday, April 26

June 2009 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Friday, April 27
Period 2: Due Monday, April 30
Period 8: Due Tuesday, May 1
Period 9: Due Wednesday, May 2

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

Weathering Processes

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-23T06:54:25-04:00

Today in class, periods 1 and 2 viewed the Naked Science episode on weathering and erosion (periods 8 and 9 will view this sometime soon). Remember, weathering is the breakdown and/or changing or rocks as a result of exposure to the environment, erosion is the transportation of sediments broken down by weathering, and deposition is the dropping off of sediments after erosion has taken place. For homework tonight, please continue working on your regents exams according to the schedule below.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Monday, April 23
Period 2: Due Tuesday, April 24
Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday, April 26

June 2009 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Friday, April 27
Period 2: Due Monday, April 30
Period 8: Due Tuesday, May 1
Period 9: Due Wednesday, May 2

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date.

Weathering, Erosion, and Deposition

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-20T07:03:34-04:00

Today in class, we took a brief quiz before introducing the concepts of weathering, erosion, and deposition. We will continue to explore the details of these important processes next week. The only homework for the weekend is to continue work on your practice Regents exams.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Monday, April 23
Period 2: Due Tuesday, April 24
Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday April 26

All tests must be completed and graded by the due date. Once you finish June 2008, please begin work on June 2009.

Porosity, Permeability, and Capillarity

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-19T07:03:49-04:00

Today in class, we reviewed porosity, permeability, and capillarity. We will have a brief quiz on this, along with the groundwater zones and infiltration factors. Notes can be found here. Here are some questions to think about this evening:

What will happen to the water table during an extended period of rainfall?
What set of soil conditions will result in the most infiltration?
What soil characteristic is unaffected by particle size?
How will covering a grassy field with a paved parking lot affect infiltration/run-off?
Which soil particle sizes will allow water to infiltrate most quickly?
What does it mean when a soil sample has a large percentage of open space?
Why is come water pulled upwards through the soil, above the water table?
What happens to infiltration in the winter, when the soil becomes frozen?

Tomorrow in class, after the quiz, we will begin exploring weathering, erosion, and deposition. In the meantime, please continue work on your practice Regents exam.

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Monday, April 23
Period 2: Due Tuesday, April 24
Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday April 26

Porosity and Permeability

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-18T07:04:15-04:00

Today in class, we worked on the Porosity and Permeability lab using this LinkViewer. If you did not complete the lab and all the questions in class, please do so for homework. I will go over and collect this activity tomorrow. Here’s a quick review: Porosity is the amount of pore space within a material. The size of particles does not impact the porosity, as long as the sample is sorted. Packing and particle shape does impact porosity. Permeability is the ability for a material to allow water to pass through it. Samples made up of large particles will be more permeable. Packing and particle shape also affects permeability.

We will have a brief quiz on Friday covering groundwater zones, porosity, permeability, and capillarity.

DC T-SHIRT MONEY DUE THURSDAY!! PLEASE GIVE IT TO MRS. MELLIA ($10 CASH).

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Monday, April 23
Period 2: Due Tuesday, April 24
Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday April 26

Groundwater Zones, Porosity and Permeability

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-17T07:00:16-04:00

Today in class, we reviewed the major groundwater zones including the impermeable rock, the zone of saturation, the water table and the zone of aeration. Please review your diagrams as they will be important in the coming days. We also introduced the ideas of porosity and permeability. Porosity is the amount of open pore-space within a material, while permeability is the ability for that material to allow water to pass through it. Here is an animation which illustrates the impact of particle size on porosity and permeability.

For homework, please copy (write) the following definitions in your notes. I will check them tomorrow.

Unsorted sample - A material in which all particles are different shapes and sizes.
Sorted sample - A material in which all particles are the same shapes and sizes.
Packing - How tightly packed together the particles in a sample are.
Porosity - The amount of open space within a sample of a material.
Permeability - The ability for a material to allow water to pass through it.
Capillarity - A material’s ability to pull water upwards through it, against the pull of gravity.

DC T-SHIRT MONEY DUE THURSDAY!! PLEASE GIVE IT TO MRS. MELLIA ($10 CASH).

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Monday, April 23
Period 2: Due Tuesday, April 24
Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday April 26

What are infiltration and run-off all about?

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-15T16:12:21-04:00

Today in class, we reviewed the water cycle using this linkviewer and this handout. We paid particular attention to the processes of infiltration (water seeping into the ground) and run-off (water flowing along the surface). What that seeps in to the ground is called groundwater and it collects above the impermeable zone of rock. This creates the zone of saturation, above which there is a dry zone known as the zone of aeration. The boundary between these zones in known as the water table.

Here is the Brainpop video on groundwater (username: mamkufsd, password: mamkschools)

For homework, please complete these regents questions, entering your answers in Engrade. As always, this engrade quiz will be open until the end of the school day tomorrow.

DC T-SHIRT MONEY DUE THURSDAY!! PLEASE GIVE IT TO MRS. MELLIA ($10 CASH).

REGENTS REVIEW ASSIGNMENTS
June 2008 Regents Exam (All questions)

Period 1: Due Monday, April 23
Period 2: Due Tuesday, April 24
Period 8: Due Wednesday, April 25
Period 9: Due Thursday April 26

Have A Great Break!

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-05T20:22:57-04:00

Weather test grades are up on Engrade! I’ll be collecting money for DC T-Shirts once we get back.
Have a nice, relaxing break, and get ready for a busy Spring.

Wednesday, April 4, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-04T07:24:28-04:00

Test tomorrow!!

Please study for tomorrow. Review the two weather chapters in your review book, Chapter 7 and chapter 8, and review the weather practice tests found below.

Weather Practice Test #1
Weather Practice Test #1 Answers

Weather Practice Test #2
Weather Practice Test #2 Answers

Here are some weather part 2 notes that Mr. Frantzis prepared. Review videos can be found here and notes can be found here.

Tuesday, April 3, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-03T06:56:44-04:00

Today we completed the weather unit by thing a quick look at climate factors and hurricanes. Please make sure all your labs are submitted ASAP.

For homework tonight, please continue to review the two weather chapters in your review book. Chapter 7 and chapter 8 review all of the concepts we are learning about in class. In addition, please work on the weather practice tests found below, I will take questions on them tomorrow:

Weather Practice Test #1
Weather Practice Test #1 Answers

Weather Practice Test #2
Weather Practice Test #2 Answers

Here are some weather part 2 notes that Mr. Frantzis prepared. Review videos can be found here and notes can be found here. The test, on all of weather, will be on Thursday.

Monday, April 2, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-04-01T08:55:03-04:00

Here are the answers to the practice questions you completed in class on Friday when I was out:
1-C, 2-A, 3-A, 4-C, 5-B, 6-B, 7-B, 8-A, 9-A, 10-C, 11-D, 12-A, 13-D, 14-B, 15-B, 16-B, 17-A, 18-A, 19-C, 20-C, 21-C, 22-C, 23-D, 24-D, 25-A, 26-C, 27-D, 28-C, 29-C, 30-B

Today in class, we explored frontal motions and the development of mid-latitude cyclones. Here are the fronts animations we looked at. As usual, please review your notes/diagrams from class. For homework, please complete the fronts lab. Also, please continue to review the two weather chapters in your review book. Chapter 7 and chapter 8 review all of the concepts we are learning about in class. In addition, please work on the weather practice tests found below, I will take questions on them on Wednesday:

Weather Practice Test #1
Weather Practice Test #1 Answers

Weather Practice Test #2
Weather Practice Test #2 Answers

Review videos can be found here and notes can be found here. The test, on all of weather, will be on Thursday.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-29T07:22:07-04:00

Today in class, we discussed weather fronts. Please review your diagrams and use them, and your knowledge of weather, to answer the constructed response questions on the back of US map page. Here is the fronts animation that we looked at today in class.

Also, for Monday, please complete the Hurricane/Tornado/Emergency Preparedness activity. This will be collected and counted as a lab.

Tomorrow in class, you will be working on a practice test. Please complete it on your own, carefully, and we will review it in class on Monday.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-28T07:08:28-04:00

Here are the answers to last nights homework:
1-C, 2-D, 3-B, 4-C, 5-A, 6-D, 7-B, 8-C, 9-B, 10-B, 11-A, 12-C, 13-B, 14-A

Here are copies of the weather part #1 test. Corrections are due next Wednesday. Review this material as it will be tested again on next week’s weather exam.
Weather Part 1: Version #1
Weather Part 1: Version #2

Today in class, we took a look at what causes air to rise. If rising air causes low pressure, and low pressure causes humid, wet weather, then determining where the rising air is allows us to predict bad weather. We began looking at how heat (convection), mountains, and fronts can make air rise. For homework tonight, please watch the BrainPop videos linked below. Take the quizzes after each one and see how you do.

The username is: mamkufsd and the password is mamkschools.
Humidity
Clouds
Wind

Also, please continue working your way through the two weather chapters in your review book. Chapter 7 and chapter 8 review all of the concepts we are learning about in class. Please have these chapters read, and the questions completed by Tuesday, April 3.

The chapter test will be on Thursday, April 5.

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-27T07:04:51-04:00

Here are the answers to last night’s hw:
1-A, 2-C, 3-B, 4-A, 5-A. 6-C, 7-C, 8-B, 9-C, 10-B, 11-A, 12-B, 13-C, 14-B, 15-C, 16-A, 17-D, 18-A, 19-A, 20-B

Today in class, we figured out why low pressure is lousy weather. It involves the following steps, which are extremely important to know and understand for this chapter.

Air rises (creating low pressure)
Air expands
Air cools to its dew point
Water vapor condenses into liquid, forming a cloud

For homework tonight, please complete the Regents questions on the back of the handout we worked on in class today. Also, our test is a week from Thursday. Please continue working your way through the two weather chapters in your review book. Chapter 7 and chapter 8 review all of the concepts we are learning about in class. Please have these chapters read, and the questions completed by Tuesday, April 3.

Monday, March 26, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-25T16:24:31-04:00

Today in class, we took a look at global wind patterns and moisture belts (see the ESRT, page 14). For homework, please complete Regents questions on the back of the diagram from class. We will go over these in class tomorrow. Also, please begin working your way through the two weather chapters in your review book. Chapter 7 and chapter 8 review all of the concepts we are learning about in class. These topics will be on our chapter test on Thursday, April 5. Please have these chapters read, and the questions completed by Tuesday, April 3.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-23T07:08:27-04:00

Today in class, we discussed air pressure and winds. Please study the diagrams and notes we completed as this information is extremely important to your understanding of weather. Your homework is to review the content we have learned since our last test. This includes the water cycle, evaporation rates, relative humidity and dew point, pressure and winds. I will be giving you a brief quiz on Monday morning, before we move on to cloud formation.

You may use the notes here or the review videos to help you study.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-21T07:12:42-04:00

Today in class, we reviewed, completed and submitted the Relative Humidity and Dew Point lab. Make sure yours has been turned in.

For homework, please complete the humidity regents questions found here. As usual, please enter your answers in the Engrade quiz entitle “Humidity Practice Questions.” This quiz will be open until the end of the school day tomorrow.

Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-20T07:13:10-04:00

Today in class, we discussed relative humidity and dew point. We also learned how to calculate these measurements using a sling psychrometer and the reference tables. Please review the notes I have compiled on this topic here.

For homework, please complete the data table and graph for the Relative Humidity and Dew Point lab. We will review it in class tomorrow. If you need help using the charts in the reference tables, watch this video.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-18T20:39:10-04:00

Today in class, we completed the evaporation rates lab. Make sure yours is finished and submitted. Here is the lab data.

Here is the answer sheet for the in-class practice questions (if we have time to get to them).

For homework, please complete the Regents questions found here. Enter your answers in Engrade, in the quiz entitled “Evaporation Rates/Water Cycle.” This quiz will be open until the end of the school day tomorrow.

Friday, March 16, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-16T07:14:48-04:00

Today in class, we quickly reviewed the water cycle using this diagram and this LinkViewer (if you were absent, please copy down the notes).

Then, we began working on the Evaporation Rates lab (the handout and data can be found here). Please complete experiments #1, 2, and 3 for Monday. We will work on #4, 5, and 6 in class on Monday.

Have a great weekend.

Massive Asteroid Impact (Amazing Animation)

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-14T20:21:21-04:00

The Formation of the Moon

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-14T20:20:07-04:00

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-14T07:43:10-04:00

Test grades should be on Engrade by this evening. There is no homework today.
Enjoy your day off, see you on Friday.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-13T06:56:05-04:00

Test tomorrow on all of this. Be sure to study your ESRT (phase changes, specific heat, atmosphere layers, atmosphere composition, electromagnetic spectrum, station models, temperature and pressure conversions).

*Please bring a pair of headphones to class tomorrow.

Monday, March 12, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-11T20:07:41-04:00

Today in class, we completed, reviewed and submitted the station models lab. Make sure it is turned in, grades should be on Engrade by the end of the day. We also began working on the practice test in preparation for Wednesday’s weather part #1 test.

Please make sure you complete and review this practice test for tomorrow. I will take any questions during class. Here are some additional resources to use for review:

Watch this…and think about it

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-11T15:50:45-04:00

Friday, March 9, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-09T07:46:17-05:00

Today in class, we continued work on the station models lab. If you did not finish it in class, please do so for homework. Here is the LinkViewer. We will go over this activity and submit it on Monday. Don’f forget to study your weather instruments.

Our Weather part 1 test will be next Wednesday, March 14, 2012. Here is an overview of the things you will need to know. We will work on the practice test in class on Monday.

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-08T07:10:17-05:00

Today in class, we began looking at weather station models and how they are used to summarize large amounts of information on weather maps. There is a fully labeled station model in your Earth Science Reference Tables. Here is a copy of the LinkViewer from today’s lab. We will continue working on them tomorrow in class. For homework tonight, please complete the Engrade quiz entitled “Conversions.” For this quiz, you will have to use your ESRT to convert some temperatures and pressures.

Our Weather part 1 test will be next Wednesday, March 14, 2012. Here is an overview of the things you will need to know.

Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-07T07:06:00-05:00

Today in class, we reviewed the major concepts of phase changes that you learned about in seventh grade. We took a look at the properties of water chart on the cover of the Earth Science Reference Tables. For homework tonight, please read page 12 in your ESRT Workbook (the skinny green book) and complete questions #1-6 on page 13. The answers to these question can be found on page 15, take a moment and check your work. Then answer questions #7-13 on page 14. Enter your answers to these questions in the Engrade quiz entitled “Phase Changes.” I will leave this quiz open until the end of the school day tomorrow.

Our Weather part 1 test will be next Wednesday, March 14, 2012. Here is an overview of the things you will need to know.

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-06T10:46:05-05:00

I apologize for missing the morning classes today, I was at meetings at MHS. For the most part, you all did a nice job on the Inconvenient Truth activity. There is no new homework for this evening. Keep in mind, we will have a weather, part 1 test a week from tomorrow. This will cover the atmosphere, greenhouse effect, heat transfers, surface absorption and reflection, specific heat, phase changes, and station models. This content is largely from the ESRT, so make sure you can read all the relevant charts.

See you tomorrow.

Monday, March 5, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-04T20:19:30-05:00

Today in class, we reviewed and submitted the heat transfer lab, please make sure you get this completed and turned in if you did not already do so. For homework, please answer these Regents questions, and enter your answers in the engrade quiz entitled “Weather Part 1 Practice Questions.”

Friday, March 2, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-02T07:24:23-05:00

Today in class, we continued working on the heat transfer lab. For homework, please complete the entire lab. We will review it and submit it on Monday.Here is the link viewer, and here is the lab packet (in case you lose yours).

Thursday, March 1, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-03-01T07:03:44-05:00

Today in class, we began exploring heat transfer within the atmosphere. Please review the definitions of the terms conduction, convection, and radiation. We also began the heat transfer labs, which we will continue working on tomorrow.

Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-29T07:05:56-05:00

Today in class, we continued our discussion of the greenhouse effect and climate change. For homework, please complete the following:
Visit this site: http://climate.nasa.gov/evidence/
On looseleaf, list and explain at least two pieces of evidence that support the idea that climate change is occurring.

Then, visit this site: http://climate.nasa.gov/effects/
On the same piece of looseleaf, list and explain at least two potential effects of climate change.

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-28T07:23:15-05:00

Today in class, we reviewed the key concepts associated with the Earth’s atmosphere. For homework, please answer the greenhouse effect regents questions found here. For this assignment, please record your answers on looseleaf to be submitted in class tomorrow.

Also, please continue working on your NASA paper, it is due this Friday.

Monday, February 27, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-26T18:37:54-05:00

Today in class, we reviewed the key concepts associated with the Earth’s atmosphere. For homework, please answer the atmosphere regents questions found here. Please write your answers down on looseleaf and then enter them in the Engrade quiz entitled “Layers of the Atmosphere.” This quiz will be open until the end of the school day tomorrow.

Also, please continue working on your NASA paper, it is due this Friday.

Friday, February 17, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-17T07:43:35-05:00

Over your break, there are two things I would like you to work on. First off, make sure you have completed the entire Atmosphere iBooks lab (all 3 chapters). I will collect this lab on the Monday after break. You can download the books below:

PDF Version (will work on all computers, but videos do not work)
iBooks Version (will work on iPads, videos will work)

Second, please continue your work on the NASA paper. You can find the instructions here.

Have a great break!

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-16T07:16:04-05:00

Today we continued our work on the layers of the atmosphere lab.

PERIODS 1 and 2:
For homework, please complete chapters 1, 2 of the lab including all questions, the graph, etc. Please email me through Engrade with any questions.

PERIODS 8 and 9:
For homework, please complete the entire lab, chapters 1, 2, and 3, including all questions, the graph, readings etc. Please email me through Engrade with any questions. The entire lab is due Monday after break.

The Atmosphere iBook can be downloaded below:

PDF Version (will work on all computers, but videos do not work)
iBooks Version (will work on iPads, videos will work)

And don’t forget to continue work on your NASA paper. It is due Friday, March 2.

Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-15T07:07:17-05:00

Today in class, we began work on the atmosphere lab. We will complete it in class tomorrow. For homework, please continue work on your NASA papers. Here are the details of the assignment. The paper is due on Friday, March 2.

Please bring headphones to class again tomorrow.

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-14T16:03:39-05:00

Happy Valentine’s Day!
Great job on the mid-term, grades should be up on Engrade sometime later this week. In the meantime, get started on your NASA paper’s, the assignment details can be found here.

PLEASE BRING HEADPHONES TO CLASS TOMORROW (WEDNESDAY)!!

Monday, February 13, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-13T07:08:26-05:00

The Test is Tomorrow!!!!
Please bring pencils, a calculator, and your ESRT. For tonight, do some last minute review. Good luck, I know you will all do great.

Note: For the following resources, you will need to enter a username of mrg and a password of mrg

Review Videos
List of Mid-Term Concepts/Skills

Mid-Term Practice Tests:

You can also find some extra practice questions here.

Friday, February 10, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-10T07:08:10-05:00

Review for Tuesday’s Mid-term Exam!

Review Videos
List of Mid-Term Concepts/Skills

Mid-Term Practice Tests:

Email me through Engrade with any questions, or if you need some extra practice questions.

Thursday, February 9, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-09T07:15:27-05:00

Your homework for tonight is to work through as many of the review questions below as you can. We will be reviewing in class tomorrow, so be sure to list any questions you may want to review in class.

Mid-term Review:
List of Mid-Term Concepts/Skills

Mid-Term Practice Tests:

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-08T07:21:47-05:00

Today in class:
Today in class, we reviewed the seasons overview sheet. Additionally, we diagrammed the sun’s apparent path from different locations on Earth.

For homework:
Please review the seasons overview sheet and the Sun’s path sheet from class today. We will have a brief quiz tomorrow on this content.

Mid-term Review:
List of Mid-Term Concepts/Skills

Mid-Term Practice Tests:

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-07T06:54:10-05:00

Today in class:
Today in class, we completed the Mr. Sun lab. Here is the LinkViewer, and here is the graph. We also began the seasons overview sheet.

For homework:
Please complete and study the seasons overview sheet. We will review it tomorrow in class. Continue reviewing for the midterm as well.

Mid-term Review:
List of Mid-Term Concepts/Skills

Mid-Term Practice Tests:

Monday, February 6, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-05T11:59:14-05:00

Today in class:
Today in class, we completed the Mr. Sun lab. Here is the LinkViewer, and here is the graph.

For homework:
Please complete these practice Regents questions by answering them on looseleaf, then entering your answers into the Engrade quiz entitled “Mid-term Practice #1.” I will close this quiz at the end of the school day tomorrow.

Mid-term review assignments:
Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Rocks and Minerals Practice Test (Answers)
Period 2: Due Monday, 2/6
Period 8, Due Tuesday, 2/7
Period 9, Due Wednesday, 2/8

Dynamic Crust Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 2: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 8: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 9: Due Thursday, 2/9

Astronomy Part 1 Practice Test (Answers)
No due dates, you’re on your own.

Astronomy Part 2 Practice Test (Answers)
No due dates, you’re on your own.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-03T07:06:48-05:00

Today in class:
Today we completed a brief review activity to see how well you understand the seasons and the path of the Sun.

For homework:
Your only homework for this weekend is to continue your mid-term review using the practice tests below. Notice that I have added practice tests for parts 1 and 2 of astronomy.

Mid-term review assignments:
Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Rocks and Minerals Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Friday, 2/3
Period 2: Due Monday, 2/6
Period 8, Due Tuesday, 2/7
Period 9, Due Wednesday, 2/8

Dynamic Crust Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 2: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 8: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 9: Due Thursday, 2/9

Astronomy Part 1 Practice Test (Answers)
No due dates, you’re on your own.

Astronomy Part 2 Practice Test (Answers)
No due dates, you’re on your own.

Thursday, February 2, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-02T06:55:20-05:00

Today in class, we took a close look at what happens on 3/21 and 9/23, the equinoxes. We examined the tilt of the Earth on these days and the consequences for direct sunlight and duration of insolation. Additionally, we diagrammed the path of the Sun from NY as seen on these 2 days.

Check out this seasons animation, as it illustrates the major concepts we are learning about in class.

For homework, please open and complete the next set of 10 Seasons Regents Questions found here. Record your answers on looseleaf and then enter them into tonight’s Engrade quiz called “Seasons Regents Questions 2.”

BrainPop Videos to Watch…
(username: MAMKUFSD, password: MAMKSCHOOLS)
Seasons
Solstice and Equinox
Leap Year

Here are the upcoming mid-term review assignments:
Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Rocks and Minerals Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Friday, 2/3
Period 2: Due Monday, 2/6
Period 8, Due Tuesday, 2/7
Period 9, Due Wednesday, 2/8

Dynamic Crust Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 2: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 8: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 9: Due Thursday, 2/9

Astronomy Part 1 Practice Test (Answers)
No due dates, you’re on your own.

Astronomy Part 2 Practice Test (Answers)
No due dates, you’re on your own.

Wednesday, February 1. 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-02-01T07:23:39-05:00

Today in class, we took a close look at what happens on June, 21, the summer solstice. We examined the tilt of the Earth on this day and the consequences for direct sunlight and duration of insolation. Additionally, we diagrammed the path of the Sun from NY as seen on this day.

Check out this seasons animation, as it illustrates the major concepts of the coming weeks.

For homework, please open and complete the 15 Seasons Regents Questions found here. Record your answers on looseleaf and then enter them into tonight’s Engrade quiz called “Seasons Regents Questions 1.”

BrainPop Videos to Watch…
(username: MAMKUFSD, password: MAMKSCHOOLS)
Seasons
Solstice and Equinox
Leap Year

Here are the upcoming mid-term review assignments:
Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Period 9, Due Thursday 2/2

Rocks and Minerals Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Friday, 2/3
Period 2: Due Monday, 2/6
Period 8, Due Tuesday, 2/7
Period 9, Due Wednesday, 2/8

Dynamic Crust Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 2: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 8: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 9: Due Thursday, 2/9

Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-31T07:02:11-05:00

Today in class, we took a close look at what happens on December, 21, the winter solstice. We examined the tilt of the Earth on this day and the consequences for direct sunlight and duration of insolation. Additionally, we diagrammed the path of the Sun from NY as seen on this day.

Check out this seasons animation, as it illustrates the major concepts of the coming weeks.

For homework, please complete the Engrade quiz entitled “Earth Motions #3.”

BrainPop Videos to Watch…
(username: MAMKUFSD, password: MAMKSCHOOLS)
Seasons
Solstice and Equinox
Leap Year

Here are the upcoming mid-term review assignments:
Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Period 8, Due Wednesday, 2/1
Period 9, Due Thursday 2/2

Rocks and Minerals Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Friday, 2/3
Period 2: Due Monday, 2/6
Period 8, Due Tuesday, 2/7
Period 9, Due Wednesday, 2/8

Dynamic Crust Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 2: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 8: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 9: Due Thursday, 2/9

Monday, January 30, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-29T13:23:35-05:00

Today in class, we explored the tilt of the Earth’s axis and the concept of angle of insolation. Check out this seasons animation, as it illustrates the major concepts of the coming weeks.

For homework, please complete the angle of insolation lab and associated questions (here is the lab sheet) as well as the new Engrade quiz entitled “Earth’s Motions #2.”

BrainPop Videos to Watch…
(username: MAMKUFSD, password: MAMKSCHOOLS)
Seasons
Solstice and Equinox
Leap Year

Here are the upcoming mid-term review assignments:
Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Monday, 1/30
Period 2: Due Tuesday, 1/31
Period 8, Due Wednesday, 2/1
Period 9, Due Thursday 2/2

Rocks and Minerals Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Friday, 2/3
Period 2: Due Monday, 2/6
Period 8, Due Tuesday, 2/7
Period 9, Due Wednesday, 2/8

Dynamic Crust Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 2: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 8: Due Thursday, 2/9
Period 9: Due Thursday, 2/9

Friday, January 27, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-27T07:07:42-05:00

Today in class, we began looking at the basics of Earth’s motions, rotation and revolution. For homework, please complete the Engrade quiz, entitled “Earth’s Motions #1.” I will close this quiz at the end of the school day on Monday.

Also, don’t forget to continue work on mid-term review. The mid-term will be on Tuesday, February 14, 2012.

Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Done

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Monday, 1/30
Period 2: Due Tuesday, 1/31
Period 8, Due Wednesday, 2/1
Period 9, Due Thursday 2/2

Rocks and Minerals Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Friday, 2/3
Period 2: Due Monday, 2/6
Period 8, Due Tuesday, 2/7
Period 9, Due Wednesday, 2/8

We will go over each test during our call-back periods.

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-25T11:08:55-05:00

Today in class, we reviewed the proof of a round Earth and discussed evidence that proves that it is rotating (spinning). For homework, please visit the following site, which is a tutorial on Jean Foucault and his famous pendulum: http://www.calacademy.org/products/pendulum/

On a piece of looseleaf, please answer the following questions based on this tutorial. Record your answers neatly and in complete sentences.

1. What is the definition of a pendulum?
2. What are the parts of a pendulum?
3. What are the 3 scientific uses of a pendulum?
4. How do you think a pendulum can be used to show that the earth spins?
5. Describe the 2 ways early scientists tried to prove rotation and explain why they were unsuccessful.
6. Describe, in detail, how Foucault’s Pendulum proves that the Earth is rotating.
7. Describe at least two other ways that the rotation of the Earth affects our lives.

Your responses will be collected as a lab tomorrow (Friday).

Midterm Review

Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Period 9, Due Tomorrow

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Monday, 1/30
Period 2: Due Tuesday, 1/31
Period 8, Due Wednesday, 2/1
Period 9, Due Thursday 2/2

We will go over each test during our call-back periods.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-25T07:15:49-05:00

Today in class, we discussed the evidence that proves that the Earth is round. For homework, please complete these 10 Regents questions. Check yourself with the answers found here.

Note: If you need a copy of the most recent test for corrections, you need to message me through engrade and i’ll send it to you.

Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Tuesday, 1/24
Period 2: Due Wednesday, 1/25
Period 8, Due Thursday, 1/26
Period 9, Due Friday 1/27

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Monday, 1/30
Period 2: Due Tuesday, 1/31
Period 8, Due Wednesday, 2/1
Period 9, Due Thursday 2/2

Remember, you must print out each test, complete it, and grade it. THEY WILL BE CHECKED! We will go over them during the call-back periods.

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-23T19:34:23-05:00

Sorry I was out today, my daughter wasn’t feeling well. I’ll be back tomorrow and we will begin the final part of astronomy. In the meantime, please be sure to complete the mid-term practice tests. The first two, and their due dates can be seen below. Please take these very seriously as the mid-term is a very comprehensive, challenging test

Topographic Maps Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Tuesday, 1/24
Period 2: Due Wednesday, 1/25
Period 8, Due Thursday, 1/26
Period 9, Due Friday 1/27

Latitude and Longitude Practice Test (Answers)
Period 1: Due Monday, 1/30
Period 2: Due Wednesday, 1/31
Period 8, Due Thursday, 2/1
Period 9, Due Friday 2/2

Remember, you must print out each test, complete it, and grade it. THEY WILL BE CHECKED! We will go over them during the call-back periods.

Monday, January 23, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-23T07:14:50-05:00

This week, we are going to begin our final section on astronomy which involves the motions of the Earth. At the same time, we will begin reviewing for our upcoming mid-term exam (Feb. 14). Each round of call-backs, you will be assigned one practice test covering each of the chapters we have explored thus far this year. These practice tests must be completed according to the call-back schedule. I will post the details each night here on the blog. Please get started on the first test (see below) this evening, as there is no other homework.

Topographic Maps Review (Answers)
Period 1: Due Tuesday, 1/24
Period 2: Due Wednesday, 1/25
Period 8, Due Thursday, 1/26
Period 9, Due Friday 1/27

You must print out the test, complete it, and grade it. THEY WILL BE CHECKED! We will go over them during the call-back periods.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-18T20:29:36-05:00

Today in class, we are completing a linkviewer review activity. The activity can be downloaded here, feel free to go through it again this evening for some extra practice.

For homework tonight, please complete the practice test which can be downloaded here, along with the answers found here. Additionally, here is a quick review sheet for Monday’s test.

Here are some other resources to help you prepare for Monday’s test:

Practice Questions

Review Videos

Articles from Class

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-18T07:12:06-05:00

Today in class, we discussed eclipses and tides. Be sure to review all your notes from the past few weeks in preparation for tomorrow’s review activity. Below you will find some study resources for next Monday’s chapter test.

Practice Questions
Solar System (Answers)
Ellipses #1 (Answers)
Ellipses #2 (Answers)
Moon #1 (Answers)
Moon #2 (Answers)
Moon #3 (Answers)

Review Videos
Solar System
Solar System ESRT
The Solar System
Solar System Data ESRT
Ellipses
The Moon

Please come to class ready to review, with any questions you may have. I will post a practice test tomorrow.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-16T19:53:51-05:00

Today in class, we completed our look at the lunar phases. Here are some Regents questions for practice. Please watch the two videos below, including our review video on the Moon. At this point, you should be comfortable with everything except eclipses and tides.

See you tomorrow.

Friday, January 13, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-13T07:27:17-05:00

Today in class, we began looking at the motions of the Moon and how it causes the lunar phases. For homework, please complete these Regents questions.

Also check out this amazing reenactment of the Apollo 11 mission: WeChooseTheMoon.

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-12T07:27:19-05:00

Today in class, we completed our look at the modern view of the solar system. We then began exploring the Moon in preparation for a look at lunar phases, eclipses, and tides. In class, we completed this LinkViewer. If you were unable to finish it in class, please complete it this evening. In addition, please complete these Regents questions.

Also check out this amazing reenactment of the Apollo 11 mission: WeChooseTheMoon.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-11T07:33:35-05:00

BRING HEADPHONES ON THURSDAY

Today in class, we explored the objects in the solar system. Please complete the definitions and Regents questions from the LinkViewer if you were unable to do so in class (it’s a big file, so it may take a couple minutes to load, you can try right-clicking and choosing “Save as”). Additionally, please review and study the following terms as you will need to know them for the upcoming test.

terrestrial planet
jovian planet
comet
meteor
asteroid
moon
solar system
star
orbit
perihelion
aphelion
gravity
geocentric
heliocentric
ellipse
eccentricity

In addition to the solar system homework, you may want to begin researching Nasa missions, including the ones we have discussed and the more modern ones. The paper will be discussed in detail next week. In the meantime, check out this amazing reenactment of the Apollo 11 mission: WeChooseTheMoon.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-10T06:57:43-05:00

Today in class, we created our solar system object slides, completed our solar system data tables, and reviewed the Solar System Data ESRT. For homework tonight, please complete all the questions found on pages 186-189 in your ESRT Workbook (the skinny green book). We will go over the answers tomorrow.

Monday, January 9, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-09T07:09:04-05:00

Today in class, we completed, reviewed and submitted the ellipse lab. We then turned our attention to the details of the solar system. We will spend the next couple days looking at the characteristics of solar system objects, and how they move. Here is the data table to help you complete the solar system data lab in class.

For homework, please complete a (minimum) one paragraph biography of the object you were assigned in class. Include all information you think is relevant and interesting. You may use this NASA site for information and links.

Friday, January 6, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-06T07:06:40-05:00

Today in class, we completed the ellipse lab. Remember, the shape of all orbits in the Universe is elliptical. Some are very oval, others are very circular. To better describe the shapes of an ellipse, we use the mathematical eccentricity calculation. Eccentricities closer to 0 represent more circular orbits, while those closer to 1 are more stretched out.

For homework tonight, please complete these Regents questions. We will go over them on Monday.

Here is a copy of the Astronomy test (Version 1 and Version 2) for those of you who want to do corrections. Corrections are due next Friday.

I AM FINISHING UP THE GRADING OF THE PROJECTS. PLEASE CHECK ENGRADE FOR YOUR GRADE. IF YOU HAVE AN “M” FOR A GRADE, PLEASE SEE ME ON MONDAY AS THERE IS SOME ISSUE WITH YOUR PROJECT, EITHER I DIDN’T GET IT, OR IT IS NOT WORKING PROPERLY. LET’S TAKE CARE OF THIS ASAP.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-05T07:05:54-05:00

Today in class, we explored the elliptical orbits as proposed by Johannes Kepler. We began a lab in which we drew and analyzed elliptical orbits. There is no homework for this evening.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2012-01-04T07:06:28-05:00

Today in class, we reviewed the transition from a geocentric to a heliocentric model of the Universe. We explored the evidence put forth by Galileo and his telescope. Finally, we took a look at the contributions of Kepler who said that planets orbit the Sun along elliptical (slightly oval) paths. He explained how the closer a planet was to the Sun, the faster it traveled.

For homework, please complete the Regents questions found here. Either print the pages and bring them in, or write your answers on looseleaf so we can check them in class.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-31T20:57:45-05:00

Today in class, we began to explore the development of the field of astronomy. We looked at how our views of the Universe and how it functions have changed over time. We first believed in a geocentric universe, in which the Earth was stationary in the center with all objects revolving around it. As our understanding evolved, we transitioned to a heliocentric model in which the Sun is in the center and all objects, including Earth, revolve around it.

For homework, please complete the Regents questions found here. Either print the pages and bring them in, or write your answers on looseleaf so we can check them in class.

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-22T07:29:30-05:00

Happy holidays to you and your families.
I’ll see you all in 2012.

-Mr. S

Happy Holidays!

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-21T07:19:40-05:00

As we approach the holiday break, I thought I would leave you with a heartwarming tale about the joys of the Holidays as experienced in far-away lands. This is known as the legend of the Krampus…

The Krampus is a holiday fixture that’s popular in the Germanic countries. Created to really enforce the whole “better watch out” Christmas ideology, the Krampus is the pure evil that must exist to balance out St. Nick’s pure goodness. Legend has it that when the Krampus discovers a bad-apple kid, he grabs the tot with his tongue, throws the kid in a sack, and takes them back to his home for dinner.

Here’s what the Krampus looks like…

Astronomy 1 test scores will be on Engrade shortly...

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-20T07:11:57-05:00

Astronomy Part 1 test tomorrow! Use the resources below to review.

Extra Astronomy Part 1 Practice Questions

Extra Astronomy Part 1 Practice Questions Answers

Astronomy Part 1 Practice Test

Astronomy Part 1 Practice Test Answers

Big Bang/Galaxies Notes

Stars Notes

Questions you should be able to answer for Wednesday’s test

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?
What is the difference between different types of energy?
How do you read the electromagnetic spectrum ESRT?
What is the Universe?
How old is the Universe?
What is the Big Bang theory?
What two pieces of evidence support the Big Bang theory?
What is a galaxy?
How are galaxies classified?
What galaxy do we live in?
What shape is our galaxy?
How old is our galaxy?
Where is our solar system located within the galaxy?
What is a star?
What are stars made of?
How do stars make energy?
How do stars change over time?
What determines what a star’s life will be like (length, temperature, type of death, etc)?
What is our star, the Sun, like?
How old is it?
What will happen to it when it dies?
How do you read the HR diagram ESRT?

Review Videos for Wednesday’s Test

Monday, December 19, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-18T10:33:44-05:00

Today in class, we continued looking at stars with a particular focus on the HR diagram. Here are the Regents questions we looked at in class (here are the answers).

Below, you will find a variety of resources to help you prepare for Wednesday’s test. Be sure to complete the practice test by Wednesday so we can review it in class.

Astronomy Part 1 Practice Test

Astronomy Part 1 Practice Test Answers

Big Bang/Galaxies Notes

Stars Notes

Questions you should be able to answer for Wednesday’s test

What is the electromagnetic spectrum?
What is the difference between different types of energy?
How do you read the electromagnetic spectrum ESRT?
What is the Universe?
How old is the Universe?
What is the Big Bang theory?
What two pieces of evidence support the Big Bang theory?
What is a galaxy?
How are galaxies classified?
What galaxy do we live in?
What shape is our galaxy?
How old is our galaxy?
Where is our solar system located within the galaxy?
What is a star?
What are stars made of?
How do stars make energy?
How do stars change over time?
What determines what a star’s life will be like (length, temperature, type of death, etc)?
What is our star, the Sun, like?
How old is it?
What will happen to it when it dies?
How do you read the HR diagram ESRT?

Review Videos for Wednesday’s Test

Friday, December 16 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-16T06:55:21-05:00

Today in class, we explored star formation and evolution. For homework, please make sure your star notes are complete and that you have answered the associated Regents questions. All the content and questions can be found in this LinkViewer document. Here are the items that must be in your notes:

What is a star?
• How do Stars create energy?
• So, what is nuclear fusion?
• Draw a simple diagram of nuclear fusion
• How do stars form? (5 bullets)
• Mass is important (draw diagram)
• So, what’s our star like? (4 bullets)
• Do all Regents questions

Additionally, your projects are due on Monday and our next test will be on Wednesday.

For your project, please submit any digital work using a thumb drive. If your project is on an iPad, let me know so I can retrieve it for grading. If you are doing a poster, paper or other physical project, please bring it to class on Monday. You will lose 5 points for every day the project is late.

For next week’s test, here is the practice test and here are the practice test answers. These should be completed by Tuesday so we can review them in class.

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-15T07:51:01-05:00

Today in class, we completed the Galaxy Classification lab using this handout and this linkviewer document.

There is no homework due tomorrow, however, you’re projects are due on Monday and our next test will be on Wednesday.

For your project, please submit any digital work using a thumb drive. If your project is on an iPad, let me know so I can retrieve it for grading. If you are doing a poster, paper or other physical project, please bring it to class on Monday. You will lose 5 points for every day the project is late.

For next week’s test, here is the practice test and here are the practice test answers. These should be completed by Tuesday so we can review them in class.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-14T07:05:03-05:00

Today in class, we completed our discussion of energy, the doppler shift, and the Big Bang. Remember, the Big Bang is thought to have occurred sometime between 13 and 15 billion years ago. The evidence supporting this theory includes the fact that everything is red-shifted (the Universe is expanding) and the observation of cosmic background radiation.

For homework, please completed the TestWizard quiz entitled “Universe Homework #1.” I will be closing this assignment tomorrow at 3pm.

*Note: Your natural disaster projects are due on Monday, December 19.

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-13T07:14:16-05:00

Today in class, we continued our discussion of energy, the Doppler shift, and how this supports the Big Bang theory. For homework tonight, please complete the Doppler Shift of Galaxies Lab, including the 12 practice Regents questions at the end.

Here is the information we should understand at this point:

The theory of the creation of the Universe which states that all matter and energy was once together in one point which exploded in all directions forming the Universe.
Whenever an object’s visible spectrum is shifted to the red side (red-shifted), it means the object is moving away from the observer. If it is shifted to the blue side (blue-shifted), it means the object is moving towards the observer.
This spectrum from this “distant star” is shifted to the right, towards the infrared wavelengths, and is
therefore called “red-shifted”. This means that this star is moving away from the observer. If the pattern of spectral lines were shifted towards the ultraviolet, or “blue-shifted”, it would signify that the star is moving towards the observer.
Every object in the Universe is red-shifted, meaning that the Universe is expanding

*Note: Your natural disaster projects are due on Monday, December 19.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-12T06:58:30-05:00

Today in class, we began exploring energy and how it can be used to determine whether a celestial object is moving towards us or receding away from us. Here are the key ideas from class:

All objects emit energy, which travels in waves.
What makes one type of energy different from another is it’s wavelength.
When an object moves, the wavelength of the energy it’s emitting is changed by that motion.
We can determine if an object is moving by looking at it’s spectrum to see if it’s wavelength has shifted.
Objects who have spectra shifted towards the red-end of the spectrum are moving away from us, while those shifted towards the blue end of the spectrum are approaching.
Almost all objects in space are red-shifted, meaning the Universe appears to be expanding.

For homework, please print and complete this worksheet. You will need to use your ESRT to complete the questions.

Friday, December 9, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-09T07:17:37-05:00

Link #1
Link #2
Link #3

Today in class, we began exploring the Universe by describing some of the commonly used terms. Make sure that you have all the terms defined and that you understand (memorize) them for Monday. Also, be sure you can access TestWizard as we will begin using it on Monday.

*Note: Your natural disaster projects are due on Monday, December 19.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-07T07:18:35-05:00

Scores from today’s test should be on Engrade by this evening. Tomorrow, we will begin astronomy, so please clear out your binders except for some looseleaf and your ESRT.

*Note: Your natural disaster projects are due on Monday, December 19.

Kepler 22b, a recently discovered Earth-like planet.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-06T07:05:16-05:00

Today in class, we briefly discussed the P and S-wave Shadow Zones. Then we reviewed the practice test in preparation for tomorrows earthquakes test.

For homework, please study for the test. Don’t forget to review your study guide, the review videos, the animations, and your two books. You can also retake the Earthquakes Practice Test, checking your work with the Earthquakes Practice Test Answer Key

*Note: Your natural disaster projects are due on Monday, December 19.

Monday, December 5, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-05T06:50:44-05:00

Today in class, we continued working on the earthquake epicenters lab. The entire activity must be completed and submitted by the end of the day on Tuesday.

For homework, please complete the practice test which can be accessed on TestWizard. Please email me if you have any trouble logging in. In case, you are unable to access the practice test through the TestWizard, it can be downloaded below.

Don’t forget to review your study guide, the review videos, the animations, and your two books for Wednesday’s earthquakes test.

*Note: Your natural disaster projects are due two weeks from today.

Friday, December 2, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-12-02T07:04:16-05:00

Today in class we worked on the “Finding Epicenters” lab, using triangulation to pinpoint an earthquake’s epicenter. For homework, please complete the Engrade quiz entitled “Earthquakes #3.”

Our test will be on Wednesday of next week, and your projects are due on Monday, 12/19.

Have a great weekend.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-30T20:03:28-05:00

Today in class, we practiced calculating lag time and determining epicenter distance using the wedge method. Here are the Regents questions that we worked on in class today.

We have been using a lot of abbreviations and terms in class this week. Here is a table summarizing all the key terms, their abbreviations, and how to calculate them. And here is a labeled sample seismogram showing how lag time is determined.

For homework tonight, please complete the questions in the ESRT workbook (the skinny green book) on pages 125-126 (set 1 only). Be sure to check over your answers and come to class tomorrow ready to ask questions.

Below, you will find two review videos to help you better understand what we have been studying.

Earthquakes Overview

Using the P-Wave and S-Wave Chart

Wednesday, November 30,2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-29T19:37:48-05:00

Today, we practiced calculating lag time and using it, along with the wedgie method, to determine how far a seismic station is from the earthquake epicenter.

For homework tonight, please complete the practice sheet from class.
You will need to use the seismograms found here.

Here is tonight’s video depicting the nearly 50 square miles of ice that broke off the Sulzberger Ice Shelf on the coast of Antarctica, resulting from waves generated by the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan in March 2011.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-28T20:06:45-05:00

Here is the LinkViewer Presentation for today.

Today in class, we began exploring the motions of primary and secondary seismic waves. We took a look at determining epicenter distance, arrival time, and travel time using page 11 of the ESRT.

For homework tonight, please complete the Engrade quiz entitle “Earthquakes #2.” Continue working on your projects, and be sure to see me for help and/or guidance.

Here’s another amazing video for tonight. This video combines photographs taken with a special low-light 4K-camera by the crew of expedition 28 & 29 onboard the International Space Station from August to October, 2011.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-27T18:58:39-05:00

Here is the LinkViewer Presentation for today.

Today in class, we began looking at the ins and outs of earthquakes, with a specific emphasis on the major types of seismic waves.

For homework tonight, please complete the Engrade quiz entitle “Earthquakes #1.” Also, please complete a brief description of your project using the Engrade discussion board entitled “Natural Disasters Project.” We need to ramp up our work on the projects as they are due on 12/19.

Here’s an incredible, albeit unrelated, video to check out.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-24T21:26:18-05:00

The test grades have been posted (for the most part). You did a wonderful job (also, for the most part). I’m very proud, especially since this was challenging material and you learned much of it completely on your own. Keep up the good work. On Monday, we begin exploring earthquakes.

I hope you and your families have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-22T06:56:19-05:00

Today in class we reviewed for tomorrow’s chapter test. The test will be very similar to the practice test, including questions about continental drift, the Earth’s interior (page 10 of the ESRT) and plate tectonics (including the map on page 5 of the ESRT). Check out the animations and review videos to help you study.

Things to know about for the test:

ESRT pages 5 and 10
Oceanic crust vs. continental crust
Wegener’s evidence for continental drift
How convection currents work
Details of the three types of plate boundaries
Patterns of seismic activity
Evidence for seafloor spreading (crustal age and magnetism)
Hot spot formation
I may sneak in a rock and mineral question, so be prepared

Please be sure to bring in your completed plate tectonics packet tomorrow as I will be collecting it after the test. Also, be prepared to tell me your project topic and what type of project you are going to create.

This is the Keynote Template for Project Notes.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-21T07:00:47-05:00

Today in class, we completed the subduction boundary earthquakes lab and reviewed the details of each type of plate boundary. For homework, please complete on the practice test and review the material for Wednesday’s exam. Below you will find some details.

Chapter Test on Wednesday

Topics include continental drift, Earth’s interior, and plate tectonics. Use your notes, packets, review books, and review sheets to study. The sections in the ESRT review book include the Earth’s Interior and Tectonic Plates map. Don’t forget to check out the dynamic crust animations and other review resources found in the classroom. You can also check out the review videos below.

Here are the regents questions and answers from last week.
1. 3
2. 2
3. 2
4. 3
5. 2
6. 1
7. 4
8. 4
9. 2
10. 4
11. 1
12. 3
13. 2
14. 4
15. 2
16. 3
17. about 1000 degrees C
18. Indian Australian Plate
19. Convergence, coming together
20. head to high ground

Friday, November 18, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-18T07:47:57-05:00

Today in class, we completed the subduction zone earthquakes lab. Here are the correct answers to last night’s

regents questions.

3
2
2
3
2
1
4
4
2
4
1
3
2
4
2
3
about 1000 degrees C
Indian Australian Plate
Convergence, coming together
head to high ground

Homework
Please begin working on the practice test and reviewing the material for Wednesday’s test. Below you will find some details.

CHAPTER TEST: WEDNESDAY

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-17T07:22:16-05:00

Today in class, we completed exploring Plate Tectonics using the LinkViewer presentation and videos.

Homework
Please make sure your plate tectonics packet is complete. If you need to, you can access the videos and the presentation using the link above. When you are done, please complete these regents questions to ensure you understand the material. Write your answers on looseleaf. Also, check out this animation of the plate boundaries to better help you understand how they work.

CHAPTER TEST: TUESDAY

Topics include continental drift, Earth’s interior, and plate tectonics. Use your notes, packets, review books, and review sheets to study. Also check out the review videos below.

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-16T07:58:20-05:00

Today in class, we continued exploring Plate Tectonics using the LinkViewer presentation and videos.

Homework
Please complete yet another Engrade quiz, this one entitled “Plate Tectonics #2”. You may use the notes you completed in class for the quiz. Also, check out this animation of the plate boundaries to better help you understand how they work.

Don’t forget to bring your headphones again tomorrow.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-15T07:37:43-05:00

Today in class, we began exploring Plate Tectonics using the LinkViewer presentation and videos.

Homework
Please complete the 4-question Engrade quiz entitled “Plate Tectonics #1”. You may use the notes you completed in class for the quiz.

Don’t forget to bring your headphones again tomorrow.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-13T21:20:24-05:00

Hi everyone,
Sorry I was out today, I threw my back out over the weekend and couldn’t make it in. There is no homework, however, you should be nailing down your ideas for the natural disaster project. Please check out Engrade and make sure all your assignments are submitted. I will be entering your quarter grades on Tuesday afternoon. If there are any issues, you can email me through engrave, or see me in class.

Don’t forget to bring headphones tomorrow

See you in class.
Mr. S

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-09T07:00:42-05:00

Today in class, we completed and submitted the seismic activity lab. We also finished up our look at Earth’s Interior

Homework
There is no written homework tonight.

This document is for this week’s call-back periods.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-08T06:57:03-05:00

Today in class, we took a brief quiz on the Earth’s interior and continental drift.

Homework
Please complete the seismic activity lab by plotting all the volcanoes, mountains, and earthquakes in their correct positions on the map. Be as accurate as possible. Here is the data.
Also, please bring headphones to class tomorrow.

This document is for this week’s call-back periods.

Monday, November 7, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-06T19:09:46-05:00

Today in class, we continued exploring what the inside of the Earth is believed to look like.

Homework
Please complete the 10 question Engrade Quiz entitled “Earth’s Interior.” You will need to use your ESRT for this quiz. Also, make sure you have made your Natural Disaster’s Project topic choice and entered it in the form found here.
TOMORROW IN CLASS, WE WILL HAVE A BRIEF QUIZ ON CONTINENTAL DRIFT AND EARTH’S INTERIOR.

Friday, November 4, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-04T08:05:25-04:00

Today in class, we began exploring our accepted model of the interior of the Earth.

Please continue thinking about what natural disaster you would like to explore for our next project. The list of possible selections can be found here along with the choice form which needs to be completed no later than Monday, November 7.

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-03T07:43:10-04:00

Today in class, we finished our explorations of Alfred Wegener's Theory of Continental Drift. Please make sure your lab has been completed and submitted no later than tomorrow.

Please read this article about the next supercontinent, Pangea Ultima. When you are done, complete the 5-question Engrade quiz entitled “Continental Drift #2.” Also, begin thinking about what natural disaster you would like to explore for our next project. The list of possible selections can be found here along with the choice form which needs to be completed no later than Monday, November 7.

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-01T15:08:48-04:00

Today in class, we continued looking at Alfred Wegener's Theory of Continental Drift.

Copy down the Continental Drift notes, we will have a quick quiz in class on this material (I will let you use this one notes sheet). Also, begin thinking about what natural disaster you would like to explore for our next project. The list of possible selections can be found here along with the choice form which needs to be completed no later than Monday, November 7.

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-11-01T07:26:03-04:00

Today in class, we began exploring Alfred Wegener’s theory of continental drift.

Homework
For homework, please read this article. After reading it carefully (it’s not an easy article), please answer the questions on tonight’s Engrade quiz, entitled “Continental Drift #1.”

Monday, October 31, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-31T07:17:17-04:00

Your test grades should be up on Engrade by this evening. Please clear out your binders. The only rings in there for tomorrow should be some looseleaf, your ESRT, and your lab checklist.

Happy Halloween! (Pumpkin Pi, get it?)

Friday, October 28, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-28T07:45:12-04:00

Today in class, we finished our look at metamorphic rocks and summed up the chapter by examining the rock cycle. Here are a bunch of review resources for you to look at over the weekend before Monday’s test.

Practice Test #2 Answers

ESRT Book Set 2 Answer Keys

iPad Tutorials

Review Videos

Homework
Study for Monday’s test!

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-27T07:46:50-04:00

Today in class, we discussed metamorphic rocks. Remember, these rocks form when any rock is exposed to intense heat and/or pressure. The resulting rocks will have been recrystallized as a result. The most obvious clue that a rock is metamorphic is the appearance of banding, which is visible in the rock gneiss.

ESRT Book Set 2 Answer Keys

iPad Tutorials

Review Videos

Homework
Please complete all of the assigned sections in your ESRT work book. These are due tomorrow. The sections include: Minerals, Sedimentary, Igneous, and Metamorphic Rocks, and the Rock Cycle. Also, please complete the practice test, I will go over any questions you may have tomorrow in class. The test will be on Monday.

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-25T19:34:27-04:00

Today in class, we completed our look at sedimentary rocks and began exploring the third and final type of rock, metamorphic. Our chapter test will be administered in class on Monday. Here are some review resources:

iPad Tutorials

Review Videos

Homework
Make sure you have completed the sedimentary rocks outline. Most of you finished it in class, however, if you did not, please complete it using the Sedimentary Rocks LinkViewer presentation. Please complete all of the assigned sections in your ESRT work book. These are due on Friday. The sections include: Minerals, Sedimentary, Igneous, and Metamorphic Rocks, and the Rock Cycle. The test will be on Monday.

Monday, October 24, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-23T18:53:39-04:00

Today in class we continued exploring sedimentary rocks. We completed the digital lab and outline. We will have a rocks and minerals test one week from today.

Homework
Please complete the Engrade quiz entitled “Sedimentary Rocks (Igneous and Minerals as well).” Periods 8 and 9 need to finish up their scripts and images for the Videolicious project, period 8’s is due tomorrow, and period 9’s is due Wednesday.
YOU MUST BRING YOUR ESRT WORKBOOKS TO CLASS TOMORROW!!

Friday, October 21, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-21T11:17:56-04:00

Nice job on the quiz today.

Homework
Please continue working on your script and images for your Videolicious project. Here are the script due dates: Period 2: Monday, Period 8: Tuesday, Period 9: Wednesday.

Have a great weekend.

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-20T06:16:52-04:00

Today in class, we completed the igneous rock identification labs. At this point, you should be comfortable with all of the minerals and igneous rock information and reference tables. Here are the relevant review videos for you to watch.

Homework
Please review minerals and igneous rocks tonight as we will have a brief quiz tomorrow in class. Also, please continue working on your script and images for your Videolicious project. Here are the script due dates: Period 1: Tomorrow, Period 2: Monday, Period 8: Tuesday, Period 9: Wednesday.

Here is a copy of the link viewer igneous rocks notes.
See you tomorrow.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-19T07:04:19-04:00

Today in class, we continued looking at igneous rocks. Please be sure to review your notes including the rocks flowchart we are in the process of putting together. Here are the key ideas you need to know about igneous rocks:

Form from cooling and solidification of magma or lava
Intrusive rocks form inside the Earth, cool slowly, and have big crystals
Extrusive rocks form on the surface, cool quickly, have small or no crystals, and may be vesicular with air bubbles
Be able to read and interpret the ESRT.

Homework
Please complete the 10--question Engrade quiz entitled “Igneous Rocks” As usual, you may use your notes and ESRT when answering the questions. Corrections from the mapping test are due by the end of the week. Also, please begin working on your script and images for your Videolicious project. Here are the script due dates: Period 1: Friday, Period 2: Monday, Period 3: Tuesday, Period 8: Wednesday.

See you tomorrow.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-18T07:10:35-04:00

Today in class, we began exploring rocks, including the different types (igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic), how they form, and the specifics of igneous rocks. We also discussed the upcoming Rocks Videolicious assignment.

Homework
Please complete the 5-question Engrade quiz entitled “Rocks #1.” As usual, you may use your notes and ESRT when answering the questions. Corrections from the mapping test are due by the end of the week. Also, please begin working on your script and images for your Videolicious project.

See you tomorrow.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-17T07:44:22-04:00

Today in class, we will construct models of mineral crystal shapes. Remember, all minerals are composed of crystals, however, they are generally to small to see. The longer a mineral takes to form, the larger the crystals will grow. The crystal shape is entirely the result of the mineral’s internal arrangement of atoms.

Homework
Please complete the 5-question Engrade quiz entitled “Minerals #2.” As usual, you may use your notes and ESRT when answering the questions. Corrections from the mapping test are due by the end of the week.

Here are the answers to last night’s Engrade quiz.
See you tomorrow.

Friday, October 14, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-14T07:10:14-04:00

Today in class, we will build our Videolicious mineral documentaries.

Homework
Please complete the 10-question Engrade quiz entitled “Minerals.” Of course, you may use your notes and ESRT when answering the questions.

Enjoy your weekend.

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-13T07:01:30-04:00

Today in class, we will continue working on mineral identification. We will complete the lab, review the ID assignment from last night, and begin the process of creating our minerals documentaries.

Homework
Please complete your Videolicious script so that we can build our documentaries tomorrow in class. There will be a minerals quiz online over the weekend.

Have a great day.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-12T07:07:23-04:00

Today in class, we will try to identify a selection of common minerals using the characteristics we discussed in class yesterday. Please download this Keynote file which will act as your lab packet for today. Be aware that I have posted a quick minerals tutorial to help you review this content. We will likely have a little quiz in class on Friday.

Homework
For homework tonight, please complete the online mineral identification activity. You will scroll through 21 images of minerals from the reference tables. Each image will have several clues that will help you to identify the minerals. Please record the name of each mineral as you go. At the end of the activity, you will be asked to submit your answers through a form. If for some reason it does not work, please bring a written list of your answers to class tomorrow. When you are ready to begin, click here. As always, feel free to email me with any questions or problems.

See you tomorrow.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-09T21:21:58-04:00

Today in class, we will begin exploring rocks and minerals. In class, we will be viewing the presentation found here. Here is a review video which you should watch to go over the major concepts from class.
Here are the major concepts we discussed in class:

What is a mineral?
To be considered a mineral, the substance in question must meet the following criteria:

Naturally occurring
Solid
Inorganic
Definite chemical composition
Definite crystalline structure

How do we identify minerals?

COLOR- Most visible characteristic, but unreliable because many minerals share the same color and many minerals exist in different colors.
STREAK- The color of the mineral in powdered form (use a “streak plate”). Very reliable tool for identifying samples. Note: the color of the powdered form is often different form the color of the solid form.
FRACTURE/ CLEAVAGE- Cleavage is the tendency of a mineral to split along one or more smooth, flat surfaces. If a mineral does not display cleavage, it is said to have fracture, which means it breaks unevenly.
HARDNESS- The mineral’s resistance to being scratched. Minerals are compared to the ten minerals on the “Moh’s Scale of Hardness”. Minerals are often compared to glass (hardness: 5.5)
LUSTER- Either metallic (shiny, like a polished metal) or nonmetallic (dull, with no shine). Types of nonmetallic luster include glossy, pearly, greasy, earthy, etc.
OTHER CHARACTERISTICS that can be tested include: magnetism, reaction with chemicals, taste, specific gravity, crystal form, fluorescence, optics.

A mineral is a naturally occurring, inorganic, solid, with a definite chemical composition and crystal structure. All physical characteristics are a result of the mineral’s internal arrangement of atoms.

Homework
For homework tonight, please review the minerals packet I distribute in class. Complete page 2 for tomorrow.

See you tomorrow.

Friday, October 7, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-07T07:50:31-04:00

Nice work on today’s mapping test, scores will be on Engrade sometime this evening.

Homework
Clear out your binder. Be sure to keep all of our notes, worksheets, tests, etc in a safe place as you will want to access them again in the Spring. Your binder should only have some looseleaf and your ESRT for Tuesday’s class.

Enjoy the long weekend.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-06T07:32:53-04:00

Today in class, we reviewed the practice tests and completed the topo review lab activity using FormEntry. Here are some key things you will need to be able to do for tomorrow’s test:

Find coordinates of locations on the three maps we have been using in the ESRT
Determine a location’s latitude and/or longitude using Polaris/Time
Determine a map’s contour interval
Find the steepest slope
Draw a profile
Determine direction of stream flow
Determine elevations
Draw isolines

Homework
Study for tomorrow’s test. You can review the topographic maps tutorial found here, as well as any of the other resources found on the site.

See you tomorrow.

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-05T07:27:28-04:00

Today in class we continued our practice with topographic mapping.

Homework
For homework tonight, please complete and grade the practice test. Your test on Friday will be very similar to this. I will take questions in class tomorrow. Also, please review the topographic maps tutorial found here. Consider this your review sheet for the test.

Here are the answers to the practice test:

1. 1
2. 2
3. 1
4. 2
YOU DON”T HAVE QUESTIONS 5-8
9. 3
10. 3
11. 1
YOU DONT HAVE QUESTIONS 12-14
15. Draw the profile
16. 26.7 m/km
YOU DON’T HAVE QUESTION 17
18. 3
19. 3
YOU DON”T HAVE QUESTIONS 20-21
22. SW
23. 6 ft/mi
24. The contour lines are close together
25. Draw the profile

Our mapping chapter test will be on Friday. I’ll be available during lunch for help.

See you in class.

In case you’re interested in apple stuff, here is a link to the presentation in which they unveiled the new iPad software and the new iPhone 4S.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-10-03T20:44:29-04:00

Today in class, we continued working on our topographic map analysis. At this point, we have worked with the five key skills you need to have. These include being able to:

Draw isoline
Determine the direction of stream flow
Determine highest/lowest elevations
Locate the steepest slope/Calculate gradient
Draw a profile

Homework
Review the topographic maps tutorial found here. You will need to be comfortable with this for Friday’s chapter test. In addition, please continue working on the topos packet I distributed today in class. The only way to get good at this is by practicing. I will review this content in class tomorrow. Also, all test corrections must be turned in by Thursday in order to receive credit.

Our test will be in class on Friday. It will cover mainly fields, isolines, and topographic maps, with a few latitude and longitude questions thrown in. I will give you a practice test tomorrow in class. Have a great evening.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Michael Sammartano — 2011-09-30T09:56:19-04:00

Back to the blog! Sorry for all the switching around, but I’m trying to figure out the best way to utilize all the tools available to us. Engrade was just too limited in its calendar functionality, so we are back to the blog. Please visit this site every night for reviews of class materials, homework assignments, announcements, links, videos, and more.

Today in class, we continued exploring topographic maps, how to make them and how to interpret them.

Homework
Begin with some isoline drawing practice. Check out this neat online isoline drawing activity, and see how you do. Next, read through this page I’ve put together for you. It explains all aspects of contour mapping. Check out the videos, the images, and read through the content. All of this material will appear on Friday’s chapter test. And finally, please complete the five question quiz on Engrade, entitled “Topos #1.”

See you tomorrow.