Packing Slip 
item |
The Science of Survival: Temperature and Biological Adaptation (2001-2002 SyRIS Module) |
contact |
Patricia Ashby (Scottsdale Community College) patricia.ashby@sccmail.maricopa.edu |
credits |
Patricia Ashby (Biology) Steve Borick (Chemistry) Patricia Dueck (Mathematics) Paul Haugen (Physics) Suzanne Kelly (Biology) |
college(s) |
Scottsdale Community College |
discipline(s) |
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics |
summary |
In this module, students begin to understand the factors that allow organisms to thrive in various climates by addressing such topics as cooling rate versus surface area, water management by plants and insects, and metabolism rates. In small groups, students examine the principles of heat transfer, observe the mathematical relationships between size and cooling rate, and investigate the chemical composition of surface layers exposed to temperature fluctuations. In addition to the emphasis on temperature, the module also addresses how size, metabolism, and surface properties influence an organism's water management. A poster presentation concludes the module. |
details |
Many students have an intuitive understanding of temperature and heat transfer, but often miss the extension of these concepts to biological systems. By actively studying the principles of heat transfer, observing the mathematical relationships between size and cooling rate, and investigating the chemical composition of surface layers exposed to temperature fluctuations, students can appreciate the remarkable adaptations of living organisms, particularly those in a desert ecosystem. In addition to the emphasis on temperature, the module also addresses how size, metabolism, and surface properties influence an organism's water management. The module includes instructional elements that can be used in four different disciplines. The core concepts related to the principles of heat transfer and water management are: * The relationship between biological anatomy and physiology. * Surface to volume ratios. * Modeling changes in experiments. * The chemistry and role of surface layers. The module gives students new understanding of heat transfer processes and a heightened awareness of the need for fresh water in the desert. Students will never again look at a plant or insect without wondering how its leaf structure or body coating helps to ensure its survival in times of drought and flood. Students also gain a better understanding of important environmental, societal, and health issues. Such issues include global warming, water allocation, energy efficient construction materials, and hydration while exercising. Note! As a professional courtesy to the owner of this package, if you use some aspect of this package or have some thoughts about it, please share your feedback via the comments form below. |
web links |
http://www.mcli.dist.maricopa.edu/syris/ http://www.mcli.dist.maricopa.edu/syris/modules/index.php?yr=0102&id=8 |
supplements |
Science of Survival: Student Materials, Exercises, and Exeriments (document) Science of Survival: Instructor Notes (document) Note! As a professional courtesy to the owner of this package, if you use some aspect of this package or have some thoughts about it, please share your feedback below. |
shareback |
A "Shareback" cites the places on the web that mention, reference, or use this MLX package, and "shares" that information back here (more about shareback...) Most recent shareback for this package:"Biology, Unit 16, Model Lesson 2" Sharebacks can be generated automatically by weblog tools. |
extra |
Last modified: Nov-06-2002 Date created: Nov-06-2002 Visitor count: 4310 Dublin Core Metadata record  This package is included in the Systemic Reform In Science (SyRIS) Modules special collection. |
Maricopa Learning eXchange
http://www.mcli.dist.maricopa.edu/mlx/slip.php?item=405
