Author: claire2017

Self-Assessment-CC

In my English 12 class, we discussed the descriptions of settings that represent gothic literature. Here is a setting that I described:

A vacuous face exhales across a narrow window on the third-floor lavatory from the outside. She steps closer, leaning into the window and making direct eye contact; she can hear them breathing. When she got closer, noticing the features of his visage, her heartbeat reaping through her chest almost as if someone could hear it from a mile away. They make eye contact, he begins to draw letters with his fingers among the smears of hot air from his industrious lungs. His eyelashes began to fall across the window seal as he was trailing his fingers across the glass to finish his message. The young woman saw this as a form of sentiment, she thought to herself, “Make a wish…” However, the fear in her eyes disregarded any tenderness she was feeling. The sharp shape of the restroom window pointed directly towards the moonlight, making every print the man made with his fingers effortless to examine. He knew her name, his fingerprints carved out the letter “A” in Melinda, carving out her name like he was a bird trying to attract a mate, only his penetrating pupils pulled upon every worry Melinda could fathom. The complete message read, “You are no longer a maiden Melinda, you are now an angel.”. The inclement weather hauled violent winds and blew the man immediately off the metal ladder to be gashed on the cobblestone below. The maiden trampled back and observed her reflection in the glass mirror. She turned around exiting the door, the tempestuous weather picked up blowing through the pointed window behind her forcing her to fall amongst the tile floor covered in shards. Her ichor poured between the cracks of the floor. She was now an Angel.

 

 

https://www.google.com/url?sa=i&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.skyminds.net%2Fthe-gothic-and-the-fantastic%2F&psig=AOvVaw05Em4n9bEeuS_ENfgpOTp7&ust=1620103808954000&source=images&cd=vfe&ved=0CAIQjRxqFwoTCNiV_5fbrPACFQAAAAAdAAAAABAM

 

In my English 12 class, we are spending time discovering and understanding the elements of Gothic literature.

(this shape represents a dollar sign)

In my Anatomy and physiology 12 class, we conducted a lab where we simulated the steps of Protein Synthesis using a paper model.

1. Describe the process of transcription: unwinding, complementary base pairing, separating

The first step of protein synthesis is transcription, this is when the RNA translates the messages from the DNA sequence using ribosomes. Here are the steps of transcription:

A gene (section of DNA) unwinds using the DNA enzyme helicase. Once the two DNA strands have separated, this will allow for the messenger RNA (mRNA) to copy the message from DNA along the nonsense strand, RNA polymerase will connect complementary RNA bases to the DNA by hydrogen bonding. Once the copying has been completed, separation will occur by the mRNA releases the strand of DNA and exists the nucleus via nuclear pores. Protein synthesis continues.

Here is the unzipping/unwinding process

This shows how the mRNA strand was able to transcribe the DNA message through complementary base pairing. Now it has the corresponding bases to proceed to the next step.

Now that the codons are apparent, there is a separation between each of the bases. The mRNA is now able to release the DNA strand which will exit the nucleus.

2. How did today’s activity do a good job of modelling the process of transcription? In what ways was our model inaccurate?

This model gave us the opportunity to greater our understanding of what this process looks like. We were able to see what the process looks like as a whole system. Although it was not accurately sized, there were a couple of other missing components specifically the actual double helix DNA shape in the beginning. There was also no factor of the bases facing outwards on the RNA strand. We were also not able to see how many other enzymes worked in the process of transcription. Another aspect that we did not get to observe would be the representation of the bonding between the backbones and the bases.

3. Describe the process of translation: initiation, elongation, and termination.

There are three stages for translation, initiation, elongation, and termination. when the mRNA arrives at the ribosome the two separated pieces revert together. With the help of rRNA, the ribosome can hold on to the mRNA and begin reading it. Each of the codons is now being read until it reaches the correct start codon (AUG). Now the amino acids can be ordered. The AUG codon is read by the P-site. As this codon is read, a tRNA carrying the eligible amino acid is brought to the current location. The foot of the tRNA has three bases it is the complementary bases of the mRNA, these are known as the anti-codon. This specific sequence allows the tRNA to attach to only 1 mRNA codon. After initiation is over, elongation begins. Now as the strand of mRNA continues to be read, for every codon a tRNA brings over the correct amino acid, beginning the elongation stage. The tRNA initially is placed at the A-site. The amino acid from the P-site and joins the amino acid on the tRNA at the A-site. This changes the shape of the tRNA, completely stopping it from doing its tasks so then it will leave. The ribosome will ensure that the P site is not vacant, and this is when the will transfer to the next codon as well as the growing tRNA amino acid sequence chain. This process of reading each codon, summoning a tRNA, and extending the amino acid chain repeats. From now on, this process will not stop until it encounters a stop codon. This is the termination part of the cycle. There will be no tRNA for a stop codon, so when nothing arrives at the A-site, everything simply falls apart from each other. The ribosome is going to revert to two pieces, the mRNA strand is let go, and the tRNA can release the polypeptide, this is the brand new protein.

 

This is when the ribosome pieces are assembled and holding on to the mRNA. It’s beginning to read the codons, it has now found the start codon.

 

The start codon was read in the P-Site, requesting a  tRNA with an amino acid attached.

This is the start process of Elongation. The following codon is read, calling over a tRNA with a corresponding anti-codon and amino acid.

The tRNA does not have an amino acid, the shape has changed and it can no longer hold on to its spot in the P-site, and so it leaves.

The ribosome dissaproves of the P-site being empty, so it reaches over for the tRNA and begins reading the next codon.

This process will now repeat until it reaches a stop codon. Nothing will arrive at the A-site as there is no matching tRNA. This begins the process of termination.

This is when everything will release and fall apart from the ribosome. The tRNA releases the polypeptide chain of amino acids which makes a new protein.

 

4. How did today’s activity do a good job of modelling the process of translation? In what ways was our model inaccurate?

Similar to transcription, this activity brought everything available for visualization. We were able to see the stages and steps of this process. However, there are a couple of things that were missing from this model. For example, we did not get the opportunity to see the joining of the two ribosomes. Another factor that could be deemed inaccurate would be the shape change in the tRNA after the amino acid transfers over. However, we were able to see the basic steps of this cycle and highlight the important stages of Protein Synthesis

Digital artist portfolio

In my art class, we reflected on the assignments that we have done this semester.

In this post, I am sharing some information that I learned in my Math 11 foundation class surrounding the applications of statistics.

In many given problems it is important to find the mean, median, range, and mode.

To find the mean: you take add of the numbers in the data, divide this by how many numbers there are to then find the average. the mean is the average between all of the numbers in that set of data.

To find the mode: You look at the data and find the number that appears the most.

To find the median: You put all the numbers in the grouping from smallest to largest and you find the number that has the middle value. the number needs to be directly center if there is an odd number of data or average the two in the middle if it is an even.

To find the range: take the largest number in the set and subtract the smallest.

Standard deviation:

To find the standard deviation, first find the mean of the set, (instructions above) for each number in the set subtract the mean and then square it. Take the new numbers to use the steps above to find the mean, finally, square root this number and you will have your standard deviation product.

 

 

 

There are 3 different types of neurons, these include the sensory, motor and interneuron. These neurons contain these structures;

1. The soma is the cell body of the neuron
2. The axon is the long projection that conducts electrical impulses away from the soma.
3. The dendrites conduct electrical signals towards the soma.
4. The synapses transfer electrical signals from one neuron to another.
5. Terminal buttons- form junctions with other cells

 

action potential-

The action potential of a neuron is a fast electrical charge that follows down the neuron. The positive flow of ions in and out of the neuron causes this whole process. It has a very specific trigger value and if that number is not reached it will not trigger the action potential no matter how close it gets. The action potential follows a step guided process. It starts at Resting Potential, this stage,  the neuron is ready to be used and send out a signal. When the neuron is in Resting Potential there are more positive ions on the outside and the inside has a “net” negative charge. Next, depolarization begins, while the neuron is being used,  the channels in the membrane open to allow NA+ ions to enter the axon. The next step is repolarization, this is the recharge period. During Repolarization the channels open to allow K+ ions to exit the axon, this causes the next segment to depolarize. Finally, the refractory period, Flow of Depolarization this causes the K+ and NA+ to switch around to then prepare for the upcoming wave of AP. The Flow of Depolarization gathers to neuron to its original state so it can repeat the process.

The Insulated Neuron:

• Glial Cells
• Cells that provide structural, nutritional, and other support for the neuron
• Schwann cell
• Wraps around axon
• Myelin insulates axon
• Faster signal conduction
• Nodes of Ranvier = spaces between
  Schwann cells
• Action Potential jumps from Node to Node along the axon

When the nerve impulse reaches the end of the axon and makes up to the correct threshold, the axon then begins to release neurotransmitters. There are different kinds of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, Dopamine, Acetylcholine, Gamma-aminobutyric acid and Glutamate. Neurotransmitters travel across the synapse gap between the axon and the dendrite of the receiver neuron. The neurotransmitters calm through the gap & bind to receptors on receiving neurons. Neurotransmitters bind to the membrane of the dendrite. The binding allows the nerve impulse to travel through the receiving neuron. The receiving neuron decides whether or not to send the signal to the next neuron by taking the sum of the signal. If there are more excitatory’s than the inhibitory signals then it will continue down and send the next signal; however, if there are more inhibitors then excitatory then the neurons will not send the next signal and it will not continue down. The reason for this process is because we have a lot of signals flowing through our body at one time, this process helps organize and quickly complete them because the nerve cells are connected to so many nerve cells.

In my science class, we were asked to create a machine to complete a task through a variety of different types of energy.

Here is our finished video

 

Here is a drawn and written description of our machine.

Step 1 (A)

The fan is chemically powered through batteries. It provided the fan with enough energy to move it’s blades creating a wind force. That force then pushed the light ball off it’s pedestal causing it to roll down the slide. This energy quickly transitioned from chemical to the mechanical movements of the blade.

Step 2 (B)

The second step of this machine is the ball rolling down the carboard slope. After the initial push from the force of the fan, the ball is sent down due to gravitational energy and continues to roll due to this and mechanical energy. More of the mechanical energy can be seen once the ball leaves the slide and is rolling on the ground towards our next step.

Step 3 (C)

The third step is when the ball exits the cardboard slide and rolls across the ground. The ball then hits the slinky which is an example of elastic energy. It then bounces downwards and off the step hitting the elevated side of the seesaw.

Step 4 (D)

Step four, the other side of the teetertotter, which the barrel was resting on, is no lifted due to mechanical energy.

Step 5 (E/F)

That barrel that was sent slightly up now returns down and begins to roll down the cardboard ramp mechanically.

Step 6 (G/H)

At the end of the ramp, the barrel continues to roll for a short fraction of time before encountering the dominos. This mechanically initiates the dominos to fall in a downward motion, as a result of gravity, hitting all the dominos.

Step 7 (I)

Once the last domino hits the roll of tape, the roll of tape begins to move mechanically off the resting domino and gravity pulls it to the floor. There it continues to roll for a short distance before colliding into the already moving electric car which was resting on a slight pedestal.

Step 8 (J)

With a nudge, the car is then sent forward with battery power as an example of chemical energy. Along with chemical energy, the car uses mechanical energy to then drive away and pulling the string that is restricting the wrecking ball.

Step 9 (K)

This wrecking ball uses gravitational energy to bump into another string.

Step 10 (L)

Once the other string is hit with the wrecking ball, the wooden block is mechanically yanked from its prior position. Initially, it was holding up a golf ball weighted block but with its removal, the block could now fall due to gravitational energy.

Step 11 (M)

When the button is pressed on the piano it will play a song. This is a type of sound energy. When the button is pressed this displays our final goal. To find a better solution to playing the piano.

 

Here is a reflection I completed to document the learning skills we gained and the process.

In my science class, we were assigned to come up with a space-related wonder question to then research and display our findings through summaries of our research, pictures and videos.

 

Is it possible to make earth survivable if there was no longer stars in our solar system? what would we need to have/create to make this possible? 

How would it affect the earth?

For starters, we need to think about the effect of losing the stars in our solar system would have on earth. So, how might we be affected?  The sun is one of many large stars in our solar system. the sun not only provides heat to our earth alongside light, but the sun also gives vital nutrients to the human body that is necessary for survival. the sun helps us absorb calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphate and zinc. The sun also provides a stable and ideal environment for plants and vegetation on earth.  If the sun were to disappear, most life forms wouldn’t survive without the ability to photosynthesize and create new forms of cells and life. Within a week, the average global surface temperature would drop below 0°F. In a year, it would dip to –100°, Millions of years after that, our planet would reach a stable –400 making the earth’s temperature way too cold for any human. Since the earth is kept in orbit by the sun, when the large mass is gone it is quite possible that the earth would simply fly off into space falling off of the orbit along with many other planets possibly ruining the entire solar system.

How would not having stars affect our universe?

How do stars affect our universe? Our universe was created 13.7 billion years ago, and we were made up of mainly hot plasma states of matter and electron was free to move, meaning “Stardust”. Our universe was composed of stars meaning if there weren’t any stars, to begin with, there wouldn’t be a universe although,  if stars disappeared after the creation of the universe, there may be some ways to preserve human life on earth using technology to mimic the tasks of the stars. Depending on the situation, stars are possible to mimic but it is only possible to resemble certain tasks of certain stars. The universe would be affected in many ways, it is just a matter of how could we survive if there was no longer stars.

What would we need to make earth survivable?

One of the first issues that we would come across if there was no longer any stars, is the heat from the sun. based upon current technology we could possibly mimic artificial heat and somehow create a way to receive vitamin D from it.  Over time the earth would lose more and more heat, defeating more life forms even in the earth’s crust. All natural life forms beneath earth crust and atmosphere would die due to lack of ability to photosynthesize, therefore we would need to create a way to make vitamin D artificially and be able to synthesize natural sunlight. Since the sun is to keep the earth in orbit we would have to find a way to create a force strong enough to keep earth safe from flying off of the orbit. In creating this synthetic orbit we could create a very large mass in the center of the orbiting planets for the planets to keep in orbit with when circling. if we were able to naturally heat that large mass we would be able to create a replacement for the sun when ours is at the end of its life. If we were not able to create this replacement sun we could make habitats to preserve the human race. Humans could live in submarines in the deepest and warmest parts of the ocean, but another option might be nuclear- or geothermal-powered habitats where we would synthesize the basic needs of individuals to survive through the loss of the sun.

 

In conclusion, 

There are many creative ways to substitute the basic necessities for the stars in our solar system. If there was no longer stars that would not only cause a variety of problems it would also but the future of earth in very risky scenarios and situations based upon the task at hand for the stars. Although we can think of some creative ways to eliminate the tasks of the sun not all of the ideas are going to be successful leaving many opportunities of the extinction of earth and even the universe itself.

resources;

<https://www.popsci.com/science/article/2013-07/if-sun-went-out-how-long-could-life-earth-survive>

https://www.quora.com/What-would-happen-if-there-were-no-stars

<https://www.labmate-online.com/news/news-and-views/5/breaking-news/could-we-survive-without-the-sun/37254>

https://www.google.com/search?q=what+if+there+was+no+sun&rls=com.microsoft:en-US:%7Breferrer:source%7D&tbm=isch&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjyp7mi3cTiAhW5IjQIHc0yA6sQ_AUICygC&biw=1368&bih=770&dpr=2#imgrc=UAqNuf_gcgNRUM:

 

 

reflection

What questions did you need to research in order to research my topic?

In order to complete my research for this project, I needed to confer on the information I found my researching the sub-questions beneath the larger ones. For example, I needed to research and learn about what does the sun provide for us before answering the question what would happen if we took it away because learning about the necessities that it provides us will help me understand how we as humanity might be affected by the removal of this main resource. Another sub-question that I researched to understand my larger ones wouldn’t just be the sun, but ideally all stars themselves, what do they do for our earth and the places we live in. Knowing this information will greatly help the goal of answering my major question because it will help me understand the initial things we would need to recreate for the earth to make it survivable. Synthesize we need for the evolution of our planet to possibly even make life on earth and other planets possible without stars in our solar system.

What new or familiar digital tools did you try and use as you worked through this project?

During this project, I used a variety of digital tools to complete it. When gathering information to research my topic, I used a variety of credible sources that could provide the correct and appropriate information for the subject that I had chosen.  When selecting videos and images for my specific topic I made sure that I was them that clearly matched my question, doing this I actually selected the picture from a book and researched it online to find an identical or similar one.

What was the process you used to investigate this topic?

In doing this project, I used a variety of methods when completing it. The first things that I did are I brainstormed ideas about certain topics I wondered about and then formatted them into questions. I then took my most wondered and hopeful question got some feedback on it and improved it to the best it could be. From there I researched sub-questions beneath the topic I had chosen for my larger question and I began my research. After that, I gathered and summarized information into a research template. After I completed all my research, I formatted it into a way I could creatively write about my findings and share them. I lastly found some visionary sources to help get my points across.

How did you verify and cite the information that I found?

For my research, I used a variety of sources to help me understand and answer my question. I verified my sources by using many credible websites as well as making sure the information made sense by researching the information I found through other sources. Another way that I made sure my sources were verified was talking through the information with a group of people also researching space-related wonder questions and those who have a passion for space.

How did the process if completing this challenge go? what could you have done better?

When completing this project I feel that it went relatively well. I feel that I used my in-class time wisely and despite this not being a group project I feel I used my resources quite well.  Going through the process of doing the project I feel I learned many things that help the process along.  Although there is definitely more I could research, more to learn about this project to utterly improve my research. To do better next time I would spend more time doing more research about this topic and similar ones to gain a better understanding and create the most innovative and interesting research as possible.