Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Welcome back! January 3-6

Notice: The study guide for the semester test will be available by Wednesday. Ask Benson for a copy if you want to get an early start on studying for the final. Otherwise he will hand it out next week.

Tuesday
During the two weeks before finals week (January 17-19) students will be learning about the basic structure of the Earth and plate tectonics. Today they will watch a video titled "Magnetic Storm". If a you miss this day, get online and watch the 55-minute video HERE. As you watch, answer the questions on the WS, which can be found on this page.

Wednesday
We will go over the video and then Benson will explain the different "schools of thought" pertaining to the age of the Earth. He will also explain the structure of the Earth and paleomagnetism, and then students will do a WS titled, "Plate Tectonics". If you were gone, read text pages 233-237 (honors 249-252) and watch the video below.

Thursday
Students will watch a video titled, "Birth of the Earth".

Friday
Students will take notes as Benson explains the development of the Theory of Plate Tectonics.

Question(s) of the week: What is paleomagnetism, and how does it support the theory of plate tectonics?

Jan. 3: NOVA: Magnetic Storm
Jan. 3: The Northern Lights
Jan. 3: Northern Lights FAQs
Jan. 6: Interactive: Position of the Continents Over the Past 600 million years
Jan. 6: Interactive Plate Tectonics Map
Jan. 6: Read About Wegener's Last Expedition

Video of the Week

Sunday, December 18, 2016

December 19-22 (short week)

Reminder: The optional assignment to replace your lowest non-test score for December is available upon request (ask Benson for it). It is due by the end of the week.

Monday
Benson will explain the dynamics of the Winter Solstice and then students will take notes as they learn about weather satellites. Honors students: The are no MESPOWs this week.

Tuesday
We will wrap up the unit and review for the test. As study guide will be provided. The study guide can also be printed out from Benson's teacher page.

Wednesday
Students will take the test.

Thursday
Students will make electric motors. See video below.

Sunday, December 11, 2016

December 12-16

Monday
Students will continue watching the video (Into the Storm). Attention honors students: The MESPOW for this week are #65 and #72.

Tuesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains several aspects of tornadoes. Students should read text pages 573-574 (honors 564-568). If you were gone, get a copy of the notes handout, copy it, and take a look at this interactive map of USA tornado deaths through the years.

Wednesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains how Doppler RADAR works. If you were gone, read this web page and watch this video.

Thursday
After a short introduction, students will do a map activity (The Blizzard of '93). Read text pages 567-568 (honors 558-561). If you are gone watch this presentation, then do the map activity.

Friday
Students will take notes on a handout as Benson explains various aspects of tropical cyclones - In the USA we call them "hurricanes". Students should read text pages 575-577 (honres 570-576). If you were gone, watch this presentation and check out this animation of a storm surge. Also, watch this 3-minute video and short storm surge video.

Question(s) of the week: Warm water provides the "fuel" for tropical storms (we call them hurricanes). Explain how warm water contributes to the rain AND wind in a tropical cyclone.

Friday, December 2, 2016

December 5-9

Monday
Benson will do some demonstrations related to lightning and then we will finish the lightning video. If you miss Monday be sure to watch this 45-minute video. Attention honors students: The MESPOWs for this week are #2, #58, and #114.

Tuesday
Students will take notes on a handout as Benson explains various hazards associated with lightning and hail. If your were gone be sure to read through this web page. Get a copy of the notes handout and copy the notes you missed, and watch this 5-minute video.

Wednesday
Students will continue to take notes on a handout as Benson explains various hazards associated with thunderstorms. If you were gone be sure to read through this web page and watch watch/read all of the links below as well.

Flash Flood in Australia 2010 (YouTube)

Flash Flood in Southern Utah (YouTube)

Flash Flood in Nepal (YouTube)

Swath from Hi-Line Hail Storm Visible from Space (image and article)

Animation of Hail Formation

Watch This Microburst in Arizona (Vimeo)

Microburst Causes Blow-Down Near Butte (image and article)

Thursday
Students will do a lab related to latent heat (microbursts). If you miss this day, watch this video of the lab and the video below. Then do the make-up assignment - Click here to print a copy.

Friday
Students will take notes as Benson explains several aspects of tornadoes. If you were gone, get a copy of the notes handout, copy it, and take a look at this interactive map of USA tornado deaths through the years.

Question of the week: Explain what causes a microburst.

Watch this 15-second video!

8-30-15 - Wet Microburst Chandler Arizona from Monsoon Tracker on Vimeo.

Saturday, November 26, 2016

November 28 - December 2

IMPORTANT - The optional assignment to replace your lowest non-test score for this quarter is due on Wednesday, November 30. Periods 1-4-5 should do 1-20 page 553, periods 6-7 should do 1-9 page 547.

Monday
We will review the concepts covered on the pressure WS. Next, we will do a map activity related to high and low pressure systems, and then have a short notebook entry. If you were gone, read this web page and take a look at this Real-Time Animation of Winds in USA (Must see!). Also check this site to see current winds around the world - you should be able to identify areas of high and low pressure. Use your cursor to manipulate thed, and see what's happening in other areas. Attention honors students: The MESPOWs for this week are #79 and #116.

Tuesday
We will go over the Map Activity: Prevailing Winds,and then review for the test (Kahoot!). A review sheet will also be provided.

Wednesday
Students will take the test. After the test they should read pages 564-567 (honors: 556-557).

Thursday
Students will do a lab (Understanding Fronts). If you were gone, do questions 1-7 on page 570 (honors students do "concept check" questions on page 558), and take a look at these Cold and Warm Front Animations. Also watch this Cold Front Simulation (from the lab) and this Warm Front Simulation (from the lab).

Friday
We will go over the "fronts lab", take some notes on fronts, and then start watching a video about lightning. If you were gone, take a look at these Cold and Warm Front Animations. Also watch this Cold Front Simulation (from the lab) and this Warm Front Simulation (from the lab). Watch this animation of a mid-latitude cyclone to see how an occluded front forms - watch it a couple times, and be sure to click on the little rectangle to get a side view. If you miss today and/or next Monday, be sure to watch this 45-minute video

Question(s) of the week: What is the weather like along a cold front, and why is it often more intense than weather along a warm front?

Video of the Week

Friday, November 18, 2016

November 21-22 . . . Short week!

Optional Assignment
The optional assignment to replace your lowest non-test score this quarter is due on Wednesday, November 30. Periods 1-4-5 should do 1-20 page 553, periods 6-7 should do 1-9 page 547.

Monday
After a quick review of some concepts covered last week, students will do a map activity related to global wind patterns. If you miss this day, please request the handout from Benson, or to this website click on the link "to print first semester handouts", and then select "Prevailing Winds WS (H for honors, R for regular).

Tuesday
We will review "jet streams". Students will take notes as Benson explains "wind barbs", and then we will do a map activity together. If you were gone get a copy of the map activity (Jet Streams) from Benson and copy it from a classmate (we did it together in class). Also, copy the notes from a classmate, and read this web page.

Question(s) of the week: What are the three factors that cause the global pattern of prevailing winds?

Video of the Week

Saturday, November 12, 2016

November 14-18

Monday
We will do a lab to help students understand convection, and it's role in causing wind. Attention honors students: The MESPOWs this week are #23, #41, #88.

Tuesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains global circulation (wind belts). If you were gone, read pages 540-542 (honors 535-538). Also, get the notes handout from Benson and copy the notes from a classmate. If you were gone watch this video.

Wednesday
Students will watch a 30-minute video and then do a "Pressure WS" - due SOC tomorrow. If you were gone, watch the first 29 minutes of this video.

Thursday
Students will take notes as Benson explains several "wind topics".

Friday
Students will watch a video about WWII balloon bombs (related to the jet stream), and then take notes as Benson explains jet streams. If you were gone watch this video, read this Wikipedia page, carefully read this web page, and carefully read this web page.

Question(s) of the week: What are the three factors that cause the global pattern of prevailing winds?

Extras

Wind Generator Demo
Why is Livingston, MT so windy?
Weather Balloon Launch
Jet Streams Video
Image of current jet streams

Video of the Week

Saturday, November 5, 2016

November 7-11

Monday

We will go over a couple labs from last week, review some concepts, and then students will do a WS. Attention honors students - MESPOWs for this week are #43 and #62.

Tuesday and Wednesday
No school today due to the fire. Check the district's website for updates.

Thursday
Students will take notes as Benson explains concepts related to atmospheric pressure (demo included). If you miss this class watch this Can Crush Demo (YouTube video), and ask Benson for a copy of the notes. Read text pages 532-533 (honors 526-528).

Friday
After a quick review of recent topics, Benson will do a demonstration and then students will do a "can-crush" activity. If you miss this class, watch this Fountain Demo (YouTube video) and check out the other links listed below.

Extras

How to make Supercooled Water
What might happen to a human in the vacuum of space? (article)
What might happen to a human in the vacuum of space? (video)
Watch this 55-Gallon Drum get Crushed
Can Crush Demo on a MUCH Larger Scale!

Video of the Week

Saturday, October 29, 2016

October 31 - November 4

Reminder
Period 1-4-5 students can come in this week to make corrections on their recent test. Honors students can do this if their test score was below 70%.

Monday
Students will take notes as Benson explains humidity topics. Attention honors students: The MESPOW this week is #61 - read it carefully (there will be an essay question on the next test about this topic).

Tuesday
We will go over the recent test and then students will do a lab to find out what the relative humidity is today. If you were gone, watch this video

Wednesday
Students will take notes and watch demonstrations as Benson explains the basics of "cloud formation". If you were gone get a copy of the notes handout, copy the notes from a classmate, and watch the video below. If you were gone, watch this video.

Thursday
Students will do a lab titled, "What's the Recipe for a Cloud?". If you were gone, watch this video.

Friday
Students will take notes on a handout. If you were gone, carefully read this web page and watch this video. Also view the the PowerPoint posted on this page

Question of the week: Tell what Chinook Winds are, and explain how they become warm.

Sunday, October 23, 2016

October 24-28 . . . Test on Thursday

Optional Replacement Assignment
This is due on October 31. Your score on this assignment can be used to replace your lowest non-test score. For periods 1-4-5, do 1-20 page 499. For periods 6-7, do 1-12 page 485.

Monday
Benson will be gone today. Students will do a WS (due at the start of class tomorrow). Attention honors students - MESPOWs this week are #14 and #104.

Tuesday
We will go over several concepts covered on the WS and then students will take notes as Benson explains "temperature inversions". If you were gone, go to this website and read it carefully. It does not open on some mobile devices.

Wednesday
We will review for the test using a Kahoot game. Students will also be given a review sheet.

Thursday
Test today! After the test periods 1, 3, 4 should read text pages 504-509 (honors students read pages 490-498). Carefully examine all of the figures/illustrations and read the captions.

Friday
Students will do a lab today - Introduction to Humidity

Question of the week: What is "relative humidity" and why does it change throughout the day.

Saturday, October 15, 2016

October 17-19 . . . Short week!

Reminder, etc.
Project posters are due at the start of class Wednesday (not Tuesday, which was the original due date). There are no MESPOWs this week (for honors students).

Monday
Classes are a bit shorter today due to early release (every Monday). We will go over topics covered on the recent WS: Greenhouse Effect and then finish watching the "Chasing Ice" video. If you were gone watch these two short YouTube videos: Video #1 and Video #2

Tuesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains a couple important topics related to the atmosphere. If you were gone, get the notes. Reminder: Projects/posters are due SOC tomorrow.

Wednesday
We will have a lab (Heating Land and Water).

Watch the Video of the Week

Sunday, October 9, 2016

October 10-14

Attention: The optional October "replacement assignment" for periods 1-4-5 is 1-20 page 499. It is due on Halloween. Your grade on this assignment will replace your lowest non-test score in PowerSchool. Honors students should do 1-12 on page 485 . . . also due on Halloween.

Monday
Classes are a bit shorter today due to early release (every Monday). We will go over the recent graph activity and then start watching the video called "Chasing Ice". If you were gone be sure to watch this video and the video of the week (below). Honors students: MESPOWs for this week are #59 and #94.

Tuesday
The weather didn't cooperate so we continued watching the video called "Chasing Ice".

Wednesday
Guidance counselors will be doing a career planning activity with all of Benson's classes today.

Thursday
Students will continue working on the UV bead projects. They will do their experiment 5 times today (5 trials).

Friday
Students will continue working on the UV bead projects - data table, graph, poster, etc.

Question(s) of the week: When it comes to the "greenhouse theory", both proponents and skeptics use climate data from the past to support their argument. Explain.

Saturday, October 1, 2016

October 3-7

NOTICE: I had hoped that we would spend 3-4 days this week working on the UV bead projects (outside), however it looks like the weather is going to be cold and rainy, especially Mon-Wed. As a result, I've revised my plans. Students will still plan their bead projects on Monday, but we will hold off on the experiments until the weather improves. -Benson

Monday
Classes are a bit shorter today due to early release (every Monday). We will watch this 4-minte YouTube Video, Benson will review the UV bead project, and then students will be given the period to plan their projects (does not involve going outside). Honors students: Only one MESPOW for this week (#18).

Tuesday
Students will take notes during a presentation on climate change (aka "global warming"). Periods 1-4-5 should read pages 602-603. Periods 6-7 should read 594-601. Also, check out this climate change graphic.

Wednesday
Students will do a graph activity related to climate change.

Thursday
Students will work quietly on a WS at their assigned seats. Benson will be gone (working at the cross country meet) in the afternoon (periods 5, 6, 7).

Friday
Hopefully the weather will be good enough for students to start the experiment portion of their projects.

Video of the Week

Saturday, September 24, 2016

September 26-30

IMPORTANT - Period 1-4-5 students have one week to come in (before school, at lunch, or after school) to make corrections on their tests. They can use their notes and handouts. Honors students can make corrections if their score was less than 70%, and can only raise their score to 70%.

Monday
Students will do a lab called "Burning Up the Atmosphere". Honors students: MESPOWs for this week are #1 and #29. Read them both carefully and choose one to do with the WS. If you were gone, periods 1-4-5 should do questions 1-10 on page 499 . . . periods 6-7 should read 472-477 and questions do questions 1-2 on page 478.

Tuesday
We will discuss several factors that influence the flight of a baseball or football. If you were gone, carefully read this web page and pages 479-480 in your text (honors pages 466-467). Students will listen and take notes as Benson explains "The Hole in the Ozone Layer". If you were gone, get a copy of the notes handout and copy the notes from a classmate, read this web page and watch the video of the week below.

Wednesday
Benson will show students a demonstration, and then students will continue to take notes and learn about the hole in the ozone layer. If you were gone, copy the notes from a classmate and read this web page and be sure to select the arrow to watch the change over several years. Then watch this 4.5-minute YouTube video. If you would like to know more about skin cancer, click here.

Thursday
We will do a quick review and then students will do an introductory lab activity to help them understand experimental design.

Friday
We will have a notebook entry and then Benson will explain the UV Bead Project. Watch this video -> How the Sun Sees You Students will have time to start working on their projects. Here is a description of the project-> UV Bead Project

Question(s) of the week: What causes the hole in the ozone layer to appear over Antarctica every September through November? Why does the hole affect the rest of the world?

Sunday, September 18, 2016

September 19-23

Reminder: If things go according to plan, the first test will be on Thursday.

Monday
Classes are a bit shorter today due to early release (every Monday). Benson will explain the phenomenon known as "El Nino" and then students will work start a map activity related to El Nino. Ask Benson if you need help. Also, watch this short video. Attention honors students - The MESPOWs for this week are #8 and #49. Carefully read both of them and then decide which one you want to the the worksheet with. The MESPOWs are due SOC on Friday.

Tuesday
Students will listen and take notes as Benson explains several concepts related to plankton. Students will have some time to complete the map activity from yesterday. If you were gone, copy the notebook entry from a classmate, read this web page and watch this video.

Wednesday
Students will watch a video related to oceanography.

Thursday
We wrap things up and review for the test tomorrow. Students will be given a review sheet, and we will do a Kahoot review in class. Attention honors students - You will have 4 additional questions on your test. The topics of those questions will be the density lab, the ocean conveyor belt (read this also), the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico, and MESPOW #25.

Friday
Students will take a test. After the test they will work individually on a graph activity related to our next unit.

Question of the week: What is El Nino?
(What causes it? What happens in the Pacific Ocean during an El Nino? Why does it affect the path of storms?)

Click here to see the VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

Saturday, September 10, 2016

September 12-16 . . . First full week of school.

NOTICE: Every month I offer an "optional replacement assignment" that students can do to replace their lowest non-test score so far that quarter. For periods 1-4-5 that assignment is 1-6 p. 427, 1-5 p. 432, 1-4 p. 437. For periods 6-7 (honors) the optional replacement assignment is 1-9 p. 420. It is due on September 30, but the sooner you get it in, the sooner it will help your grade.

Monday
Classes are a bit shorter today due to early release (every Monday). Benson will give some papers back today and go over them. Students will also have a notebook entry - The topic will be "salinity". Periods 1-4-5 should read text pages 448-453, periods 6-7 should read pages 426-433. Honors students will have a MESPOW that is due SOC on Friday (read 110 and do 25).

Tuesday
We will be doing a lab today. The WS that goes with the lab is due SOC Wednesday. If you miss the lab, watch this YouTube Video and complete the WS (Lab: The Briny Deep is available from Benson)

Wednesday
Students will listen and take notes as Benson does a presentation on ocean currents. If you were gone, get the notes handout and then copy the notes from a classmate. Also, be sure to carefully read pages 448-454 (honors read pages 426-433). Finally, watch the video of the week below.

Thursday
Reminder: Open House at HHS tonight - In class today we will review some recent assignments/concepts and then students will watch a 26-minute video about the Ocean Conveyor Belt. If you were gone watch this short YouTube video and read this web page. Finally, watch this 26-minute video.

Friday
Students will take notes as Benson explains "the Ocean Conveyor Belt". Then we will will watch a video about El Nino (a topic to be covered in more detail next week). If you were gone, copy the notebook entry from a classmate and watch this YouTube video and read the text beneath the video.

Question of the week: In the ice-water lab, why did the temperature of the salty water get colder than that of the fresh-water by making come of the ice melt?

VIDEO OF THE WEEK!

Monday, September 5, 2016

September 6-9

Reminders

1. Thursday is "school picture day".

2. The first meeting of the HHS Outdoors Club will be Friday during lunch in Benson's room.

3. The "Freshman Tail-Gating" event is Friday at the football stadium from 6-7 pm. HHS freshmen get free food, a free T-shirt, and free admission to the game.

Tuesday
We will discuss the recent pre-quiz (not graded), and then Benson will go over guidelines and expectations for the course. Students can use remaining time to work on the MT Map Activity or the WS from Friday.

Wednesday
We will be doing a lab today. The WS that goes with the lab is due SOC Thursday. The lab will provide a good review of "density", which will be an important concept as we begin to learn about ocean currents next week.

Thursday
Students will do another lab today to help them understand how salt affects ice-water. This will also be important as we begin to learn about ocean currents.

Friday
Students will watch a video as Benson issues textbooks.

Question of the week: In the ice-water lab, why did the temperature of the salty water get colder than the fresh-water? Hint: It had something to do with melting.

Thursday, August 25, 2016

Welcome to the Class of 2020!

I hope everyone had a GREAT summer! I look forward to getting to know all of you, and I am excited about the upcoming school year. This site will be used to keep students and parents updated on what's happening in class. I will add a new post (plan for week, resources, etc.) before the start of of each school week. If you (students, parents, etc.) would like to receive notification when posts are added, select Posts (Atom) below and provide your information. Thanks!

Here are some tidbits to get you started . . .

1. www.bengalfrosh.com is a useful site that provides links to the web pages of HHS teachers who teach freshmen. Not all teachers have web pages, but this provides a convenient way to access all of the sites that are available. The teacher sites should be updated by September 1st.

2. I am one of the advisers for the HHS Outdoor Club. CLICK HERE to see our Facebook Page. We meet at noon every Friday (starting after Labor Day).

NOTE: Check out other "Important Links", which will always be available on the right side of this webpage.

Tuesday, August 30 - Bengal Beginnings Day
Freshmen will participate in orientation activities in the morning. In the afternoon, they will go to each of their classes for about 10 minutes.

Wednesday, August 31
Students will do a "Montana Map Activity".

Thursday, September 1
Students will take a quiz (not graded) to assess their science background, and then be given time to finish the map activity from yesterday.

Friday, September 2
Benson will be gone today. Students will do a worksheet.

Attention Honors Students - Part of being an honors students is figuring out how to find information and figure some things out on your own. Below are some links that will help with the last few questions on your map activity. Use your Internet searching skills to access other resources!

1. The Wilderness Society

2. Montana Wilderness Association

3. Wilderness FAQs

4. Rules of Thumb for Wilderness Areas

Click on the map below for a larger view of Montana's 15 designated wilderness areas.

Saturday, May 28, 2016

May 31 - June 3 . . . Last post for the 2015-2016 school year!

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" for period 1, 3, 4 is questions 1-23 on page 725. The replacement assignment for periods 6-7 is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Get it in by the end of the day on June 3.

Monday
No school.

Tuesday
We will go over a couple solar system topics and then learn some basic things about the Sun.

Wednesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains several astronomy topics.

Thursday
Students will take notes as Benson explains the life cycles of stars. Gone? Read pages 707-714 (honors 693-699).

Friday
Benson will tell students about the test and then we will do this KaHoot Review Game. A study guide will be provided. For other review resources, check out the links below. Good luck on finals!

Click here to print a copy of the study guide for the semester final. - Benson will provide you with a copy on Friday.

Below: Links to IMPORTANT Review Resources

1. It is important that you understand the Rock Cycle (several questions). To review read pages 67-69 (honors pages 52-54) and take a look at this animation.

2. This graph will be on the test - CLICK HERE

3. There will be several questions to check your understanding of this Moonphase Exercise

4. Make sure you understand the motion, varying speed, and tail of a comet. Watch this animation

5. There will be a diagram and questions to check your understanding of Giant Springs

6. This diagram will be on the test. The same diagram can be found on page 339 of your text (honors text page 328). You should be able to use principles of superposition and cross-cutting to determine relative ages as you did on the WS: Principles of Geology last winter.

7. Attention Honors students - The topic of one of your essay questions will the Northern Lights and the topic of the other one will be the Bakken formation.

Question of the Week
What can we see (Hubble Space Telescope) that indicates there is a supermassive black hole at the center of our galaxy?

Saturday, May 14, 2016

May 16-20

Monday
Students will do a WS.

Tuesday
Weather-permitting we will launch rockets today.

Wednesday
Students will take notes as Benson provides a general overview of NASA - past, present, future.

Thursday
Students will take notes as Benson explains several concepts related to the Earth-Moon relationship, including tides, phases, and eclipses. Be sure to do this Online Moon Phase Exercise (very good). You do not need to hand anything in, but there will be similar questions on the semester exam. Here is a 10-minute video (ABC News coverage) of the 1979 solar eclipse, including coverage from Helena, Montana!

Friday
Students will begin watching "The Martian".

Interesting Links

NASA's YouTube Channel

Monday: Brief History of Animals in Space

Space Shuttle Landing Sites (6-minute video)

Video of Probe Landing on Mars in 2004 (6-minute YouTube video)

Video of Probe Landing on Mars in 2012 (6-minute YouTube video)

Are we going to Mars?

History of Exploration of Mars

Moon phase animation

Another Moon phase animation

Moon phases this month

Online Moon Phase Exercise (very good)

Lunar Eclipse Animation

Lunar Eclipse Explained

Tides Animation

D-Day Moon

Tides - select "Launch Interactive"

Spring and Neap Tides

Bay of Fundy Tides Explained

Eclipse Animations

Various Moon Animations

Space Weather

Solar Max of 2013

Northern Lights Explained

Spaceweather.com

Northern Lights Explained

Northern Lights over Iceland

Question of the Week
Why is Pluto no longer considered to be a planet?

Video of the week:

Monday, May 9, 2016

May 9-13

Monday
Students will finish the video (October Sky) and then Benson will explain fact vs. fiction, etc.

Tuesday-Wednesday
Students will be constructing rockets.

Thursday
Students will begin watching a video about the "Space Race" and then be given time to put finishing touches on their rockets. If you miss this class, print out this worksheet and watch the first 65 minutes of the video below.

Friday
We will finish watching the video and then Benson will explain the Apollo missions. If you were gone, watch the video below.

Interesting Links

NASA's YouTube Channel

Brief History of Animals in Space

16-min Video about the controversial 1972 USA vs. USSR gold medal game

Question of the Week
Why was it so important for the USA to land a man on the Moon before the USSR did?

Video of the week:

Saturday, April 30, 2016

May 2-6

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" (for period 1, 3, 4) is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Get it in before Vigilante Day.

Monday
Test today over groundwater, surface water, glaciers, ice ages.

Tuesday
We start watching a video called "October Sky".

Wednesday
Benson will explain the historical context of the movie as it relates to the "Space Race", and then we will continue watching the movie.

Thursday
Many students will be not be in class today for various reasons, including float-building, Vigilante Academy, and marching band practice.

Friday
No school today. The parade starts at noon.

Thursday, April 21, 2016

April 25-29

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" (for period 1, 3, 4) is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Get it in before Vigilante Day.

Attention honors students: The MESPOWs for this week are #91 and #122.

Monday
Periods 1-6-7 will watch a video: Snowball Earth - If you were gone, watch it here (43 minutes). Period 3-4 will watch a different video (America's Ice Age). Benson will be gone today.

Tuesday
We will take notes on a handout called "Ice Ages". Honors students who were gone should read the text section titled "Causes of Glaciation" (pages 174-177).

Wednesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains various ways that the last ice age impacted Montana.If you miss this class be sure to open the "Wednesday" links below and carefully read the web pages.

Thursday
We will watch a short video and then prepare for the test. If you were gone, scroll down and watch the "video of the week". A review sheet will be provided or you can print out a copy here .

Friday
The test over groundwater, surface water, glaciers, ice ages has been moved to Monday. Today, students will go to the Little Theater for a presentation on the Montana Conservation Corp.

Below: Important Links - Be sure to check them out if you missed class.

Monday: Glacial Landforms
Monday: Striations
Tuesday: Milankovitch Cycles
Wednesday: Ice Ages changed the Missouri River
Wednesday: Flathead Lake
Wednesday: Snake Butte in North-Central Montana

Question of the Week: What caused the formation of Glacial Lake Missoula, and how did the outburst floods cause the Scablands of Washington?

Video of the Week

Monday, April 18, 2016

April 18-21

Monday
We will go over recent map activities.

Tuesday
Video: The Last Extinction - If you were gone, print out a copy of the video worksheet here and fill in the answers as you watch it online here.

Wednesday
Period 1-3-4 students will take notes as Benson explains various aspects of glaciers. If you were gone read pages 188-198 (honors 158-171). Periods 6-7 will go over the Bakken WS, finish the video, discuss it, and then start taking notes.

Thursday
Period 1 will listen to student council campaign speeches in the gym. Period 3-4 will watch a video: Snowball Earth - If you were gone, watch it here (43 minutes). Periods 6-7 will continue taking notes and learning about glaciers.

Friday
No school

Below: Important Links to Review (Be sure to check them out if you missed class.)

SNOTEL Sites
11 year-old Boy Discovers Wooly Mammoth in Russia
Glacial Landforms
Animations of Stationary, Advancing, Receding Glaciers

Video of the Week

Saturday, April 9, 2016

April 11-15

Monday-Wednesday
Students will continue working on the Island Watershed Activity. It is due at the start of class on Friday. Honors students - There is no MESPOW this week. Instead, you will do an assignment called Intro to the Bakken Formation. It is due SOC Friday.

Thursday
Students will do a map activity called "Helena Area Watersheds". If you were gone, print out the make-up assignment here.

Friday
Students will take notes as Benson explains various Helena area water resources. If you miss this class, read this webpage, get the notes handout, watch this PowerPoint Presentation, and watch the video of the week below.

Make-Up Assignment for Montana Rivers (last week)
The Great Falls of the Missouri
Watershed of the Yellowstone River
Milltown Dam
Triple Divide Peak
Handout for Watershed Project (pdf file)
Island Watershed Project
Oxbow Lakes
SNOTEL Sites

Video of the Week

Friday, April 1, 2016

April 4-8

I hope everyone had a great spring break. Here's the plan for April 4-8.

Monday
Periods 1-3-4: We will go over the "WS: Water" and then finish the map activity called "USA Drainage Basins".

Periods 6-7: We will go over a recent WS and then finish the porosity lab that we set up before the break. MESPOWs for this week are . . . Read 3, 4, 58, 68, 69, and do 120.

Tuesday
Periods 1, 3, and 4 will start a map activity called "Montana Rivers". If you miss the map activity, print out a copy of the make-up assignment here and then watch this Montana Rivers PowerPoint.

Periods 6 and 7 do the "Map Activity: USA Drainage Basins". If you miss the map activity, print out a copy of the packet here, watch the PowerPoint here, and complete the packet.

Wednesday
Periods 1-3-4 will finish the "Montana Rivers Map Activity" and periods 6-7 will watch a video about the plight of the Columbia River salmon.

Thursday
Periods 1-3-4 will watch a video about the plight of salmon in the Columbia Basin and then finish the porosity lab from March. Periods 6-7 will do the "Map Activity: Montana Rivers" - due SOC Monday.

Friday
Students will start the Island Watershed Activity

Make-Up Assignment for Montana Rivers
Montana's Rivers
Montana Rivers PowerPoint - WATCH IT IF YOU WERE GONE!
The Great Falls of the Missouri
Watershed of the Yellowstone River
Milltown Dam
Triple Divide Peak
Handout for Watershed Project (pdf file)
Island Watershed Project
Oxbow Lakes
SNOTEL Sites

Question of the Week: Where does the water used in the city of Helena come from?

Video of the Week

Saturday, March 19, 2016

March 21-25

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far.

Monday
Students will do a worksheet.

Tuesday
Periods 1-3-4 will take notes as they learn the basics of groundwater. If you were gone, read pages 171-180 and watch this video.

Honors students (periods 6-7) will take a test. Attention honors students - The topics for the two level-2 questions on the test will be . . . the earthquake/tsunami of 1700, and radiocarbon dating.

Wednesday
Periods 1-3-4 will review the water cycle and then do a lab activity related to groundwater. If you were gone, read through this Water Cycle Tutorial, read pages 158-161, get the handout, and watch this PowerPoint (goes with handout).

Periods 6-7 will take notes on a handout (Groundwater). If you were gone, read 140-150 and watch this video.

Thursday
Period 1-3-4 will take notes as they learn about groundwater issues. Periods 6-7 will review the water cycle and then do a lab activity related to groundwater. Honors students - If you were gone, read through this Water Cycle Tutorial, get the handout, and watch this PowerPoint (goes with handout). .

Friday
Periods 1-3-4 will do a map activity called (USA Drainage Basins). If you miss the map activity, print out a copy of the packet here, watch the PowerPoint here, and complete the packet. Period 6-7 will take notes as they learn about groundwater issues.

Saturday, March 12, 2016

March 14-18

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Also, if you weren't here to do the epicenter location activities on Thursday (or if you just want a better grade on that), do this Virtual Earthquake Activity. Simply print out your certificate when finished, and give it to Benson by Wednesday.

Honors students: The handouts for your projects and papers can be found here.

Monday
Period 1-3-4 students will take notes on a handout (Earthquake Hazards). Honors students will go over the Dating Deep Blood Kettles WS, the Carbon Cycle Activity, and talk about the projects (or papers), which are due on Friday.

Tuesday
Periods 1, 3, 4 will watch a video called "Ultimate Tsunami". Periods 6 and 7 will take notes on a handout (Earthquake Hazards).

Wednesday
Periods 1, 3, 4 will take notes as they learn about Montana Earthquakes. If you were gone, get a copy of the handout, copy the notes, and carefully read each of the links below that are marked with an asterisk(*). Periods 6 and 7 will watch "Ultimate Tsunami".

Thursday
Periods 1, 3, 4 will review for the test. Periods 5 and 7 will take notes on a handout (Montana Earthquakes). If you were gone, get a copy of the handout, copy the notes, and carefully read each of the links below that are marked with an asterisk(*).

Friday
Periods 1, 3, 4 will take a test and then read text pages 171-180. Periods 6 and 7 will review for the test and then set up for Science Circus.

Alaska Earthquake Video
Tsunami Animation
Tsunami Demonstration (Oregon State Lab)
Impressive Video of 2004 Tsunami
Animation of 2004 Tsunami
Tsunami Tutorial Video
*Montana's Greatest Earthquake Disaster
*Earthquake Destroys Helena High in 1935
Photos of Damage from the 1935 Helena Earthquakes
*Helena Has Its Faults
Major Quake Hits Japan
Japan's Earthquake Warning System Explained
Before and After Photos of Tsunami Damage in Japan
30-Foot Wall no Match for Tsunami

Saturday, March 5, 2016

March 7-11

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far.

Honors students: The handouts for your projects and papers can be found here.

Monday
We will correct and go over a couple assignments from last week - "WS: Princples of Geology" and "Dating Deep Blood Kettles". If you were gone, watch this short short YouTube video. Honors students - There are no MESPOWs this week, but the Carbon Cycle WS is due Friday. Here is the Carbon Cycle Tutorial and here is the Carbon Cycle Diagram (also shown below).

Tuesday
Students will learn about the basics of earthquakes as they take notes on a handout. If you were gone, read chapter 7 - honors read chapter 8.

Wednesday
Students will do a group problem-solving activity (Locating Epicenters). If you were gone, go to this website, click on the animation link, and watch it. Then do this Virtual Earthquake Activity - put your answers on your own paper and print out the certificate at the end of the activity. Hand both in.

Thursday
Students will watch a video called "Ultimate Earthquake".

Friday
Students will watch a video about the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. I you were gone, be sure to watch it here.

Animations of Seismic Waves
Animations of Seismic Waves
Animations of Seismic Waves
Largest Earthquakes by Magnitude since 1900
YouTube explains Moment Magnitude Scale
Animation of Earthquake Waves

Click on Image to Enlarge

Saturday, February 27, 2016

March begins! 2/29-3/4

Honors students: The handouts for your projects and papers can be found here.

Monday
Students will do an activity to help them understand the rock cycle. If you were gone, carefully read pages 67-69 (honors pages 52-54) and take a look at this animation. Print out a copy of the Rock Cycle WS here and then watch the Rock Cycle Presentation posted here. Do the WS as you watch. Honors - The MESPOWs are #73, and #103.

Tuesday
Students will do a station to station activity related to recent topics. If you are gone, periods 1-3-4 do "Reviewing Content" 1-10 on page 89 (honors do 1-10 on page 78-79).

Wednesday
We will review several concepts, and then students will do a WS: Principles of Geology. If you are gone, go to this website and print out a copy . Do it!

Thursday
Benson will explain how radiometric dating works, and then students will do an assignment called "Dating Deep Blood Kettles". If you were gone . . .
1. Watch the video posted below.
2. Read this web page: Radiometric Dating at a Bison Kill Site
3. Print out the "Radiometric Dating Assignment" handout here or get a copy from Benson.
2. View the PowerPoint Presentation. Do as instructed.

Friday
Students will watch a video called "The Day the Mesozoic Died". If you were gone, watch it here.

Video of the Week

Saturday, February 20, 2016

February 22-26

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" (for period 1, 3, 4) is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Honors students - Your "replacement assignment" is 1-10 on pages 292-293 of your text.

Honors students: The handouts for your projects and papers can be found here. You need to make a decision by Monday, Feb. 22.

Monday
Periods 1-3-4: We will go over a recent lab and then students will do a WS. Honors students: We will go over the lab and then get you prepared for the science circus project. The MESPOWs are #26, #87, and #121.

Tuesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains weathering and erosion. If you were gone, it is important that you read chapter 5 in your text (Honors - chapter 4), and watch this animation - 5 parts.

Wednesday
Students will watch a video about the Alps.

Thursday
Students will take notes on a handout as Benson explains sedimentary rocks. If you were gone, read pages 76-79 (Honors 62-68). Also read these web pages: Montana coal - Madison limestone - Eagle sandstone - Belt formation

Friday
We will go over the video from Wednesday and then Benson will explain/show several examples of recent topics. Finally, students will take notes as they learn about (and look at) some common metamorphic rocks.

Weathering and Erosion Cartoon
PowerPoint Presentation - Weathering and Erosion
Washington Mudslide Interactive
Mass Wasting in Gates of Mountains
Mass Wasting in Jackson Hole
Mt. Rushmore Facelift
Photos of March 2011 Rockslide Near Billings
Rockslide Caught on Camera in Tennessee
Cleaning Lichens from Mt. Rushmore in 2005
Formation of the Himalayas
Coal Mine Near Colstrip
Thursday: Eagle Sandstone
General Article About Limestone
Madison Limestone
An Ice Cave in the Madison Limestone
The Belt Supergroup
(YouTube Video) Virtual Tour of a Wyoming Strip Mine
Montana Coal Mine
Montana's Oldest Rocks
Chief Mountain
Sea Creatures in Glacier Park?

Video of the week . . .

Saturday, February 13, 2016

Feb. 15-19: Test on Thursday

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" (for period 1, 3, 4) is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Honors students - Your "replacement assignment" is 1-10 on pages 292-293 of your text.

Honors students: The handouts for your projects and papers can be found here. You need to make a decision by Monday, Feb. 22.

Monday
No school today.

Tuesday
Students will do a lab titled, "Igneous Rocks". If you were gone, print out this Igneous Rocks Lab Handout and then go to this website (Igneous Rocks Lab).

Wednesday
We will return and go over several recent assignments/labs, and review for the test. A review sheet will be provided, or you can print it out here. Be sure to watch this Important 4-Part Animation. There will be a similar diagram on the test.

Thursday
Students will take a test and then read text pages 126-137 (honors 84-92).

Friday
Students will do a lab titled, Frost Wedging. (If you were gone, click on the link and follow instructions.)

Question of the Week: Crown Butte is made of an igneous rock called "porphyry". Explain how this rock formed.

Monday, February 8, 2016

February 8-12

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" (for period 1, 3, 4) is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Honors students - Your "replacement assignment" is 1-10 on pages 292-293 of your text.

Honors students: The handouts for your projects and papers can be found here. You need to make a decision by Monday, February 22.

Test Next Week - A study guide will be provided on Wednesday, or you can print it out here.

Monday
Benson will be gone today. Students will watch a video about the geology of Yosemite Park. If you are gone, print the handout here and then watch the video here. Honors students - The MESPOW is #115.

Tuesday
Students will take notes as Benson explains "plutonic formations". If you were gone, read through the Crown Butte Virtual Field Trip and then take a look at this animation (4 parts). Read pages 295-297.

Wednesday
Students will do a lab - they will determine the density of different types of igneous rocks.

Thursday
We will go over the video from Monday, and then Benson will show several examples of plutonic formations. We are on assembly schedule today.

Friday
Students will take notes as Benson explains various types of igneous rocks. Read 70-74 (honors pages 55-58).

Question of the week
If plutonic formations form beneath the surface, why can they be found standing above the surface today?

Click on the links below to see many resources related to this unit.

Tuesday: Plutons Animation
Tuesday: Benson and Daughter Climb Devils Tower (photo album)
Thursday: Longer Video (13-min) about Alex Honnold Climbing
Thursday: Excellent Video About Hiking Onto Half Dome
Friday: Ringing Rocks
Friday: Igneous Rocks Pictures

Saturday, January 30, 2016

February 1-5

NOTE: The monthly optional "replacement assignment" (for period 1, 3, 4) is available here. Your score on this will replace your lowest non-test score so far. Honors students - Your "replacement assignment" is 1-10 on pages 292-293 of your text.

Monday
Students will continue taking notes as Benson explains various hazards associated with volcanism. See links below if you were gone.

Tuesday
Benson will explain 3 great eruptions and we will finish the notes on volcanic hazards. Then students will work on their crystal growth lab. See links below if you were gone, and read this. Honors students will be assigned the "Crown Butte Virtual Field Trip" - It is due SOC on Friday. If you miss class, copy the notes from a friend and take a look at the links below.

Wednesday
Students will watch a video called Earth's Deadliest Eruption.

Thursday
Students will do a lab to called "Magma and Lava". If you were gone, do questions 1-7 page 74 (Honors do 1-7 p. 62). Honors students: The handouts for your projects and papers can be found here. Decide which you want to do, print out the handout and read it. We will have a lottery later this month to determine who gets to do what, and which shifts you will work. The Science Circus will be on Friday and Saturday, March 18-19.

Friday
Students will take notes as Benson explains various types of volcanic formations.

Question of the week
How can geologists determine whether an igneous rock formed from lava that cooled above the surface, or from magma that cooled beneath the surface?

Click on the links below to see many resources related to this unit.

Monday/Tuesday: Mt. St. Helens Lava Dome
Monday/Tuesday: Deadliest Eruptions of All time
Monday/Tuesday: The Eruption of Mt. St. Helens
Monday/Tuesday: Benson's Three Days of Hiking - St. Helens and Rainier
Monday/Tuesday: Laki Eruption in Iceland 1783-1784
Monday/Tuesday: Mt. Rainier Mudflow (future)
Monday/Tuesday: Bodies at Pompeii
Monday/Tuesday: Collection of Photos: Bodies at Pompeii
Monday/Tuesday: Krakatau Tsunami (1883)
Monday/Tuesday: Ship Survives Krakatau Tsunami (1883)
Monday/Tuesday: Ashfall Fossil Site in Nebraska
Monday/Tuesday: Mazama Ash near Helena
Monday/Tuesday: Virtual Tour of the Ashfall Fossil Site in Nebraska
Monday/Tuesday: Yellowstone Volcano Explained by the Scientist-In-Charge
Monday/Tuesday: Misconceptions about the Yellowstone Volcano
Monday/Tuesday: The Elkhorn Volcano (near Helena)
Monday/Tuesday: Igneous Rocks in Montana
Monday/Tuesday: Ancient Volcano Between Helena and Great Falls
Monday/Tuesday: Time-Lapse of Mt. St. Helens Lava Domes 2004-2008 (1:26)
Monday/Tuesday: Short Time-Lapse of Mt. St. Helens Lava Dome (00:07)
Monday/Tuesday: Animation of Mt. St. Helens Lava Domes (00:12)
Friday: Animation of Lava Flows at Craters of the Moon (Idaho)

Friday, January 22, 2016

January 25-29 The new semester begins!

Monday
We will discuss the semester grades, and then students will be given time to start an assignment (WS: Intro to Volcanism). Attention honors students: MESPOWs this week are #6 and #80.

Tuesday
Students will take notes (on handout) as Benson explains basic concepts related to volcanism. If you were gone, take a look at this animation.

Wednesday
Students will do a lab - "What happened at Lake Nyos?" If you are gone, read this and watch this video.

Thursday
Periods 1-3-4 will watch a video - "Mystery of the Meagavolcano". If you were gone, be sure to watch it HERE. Periods 6-7: Benson will explain various hazards associated with volcanoes as students take notes. If you were gone, take a look at this photo album.

Friday
Periods 1-3-4: Benson will explain various hazards associated with volcanoes as students take notes. If you were gone, take a look at this photo album. Periods 1-3-4 will watch a video - "Mystery of the Meagavolcano". If you were gone, be sure to watch it HERE.

Question of the week: What are the three basic types of volcanic activity? Provide an example of each.

Interactive: Three Types of Volcanism
What happened at Lake Nyos?

Video of the Week

Monday, January 18, 2016

January 18-22 Finals Week

Monday
No school

Tuesday
First period final exam from 9:55-11:15

Wednesday
Third period final from 8:20-9:40

Fourth period final from 9:55-11:15

Fifth period final from 11:50-1:10

Thursday
Seventh period final from 9:55-11:15

Friday
No school for students.

Video of the Week

Friday, January 8, 2016

January 11-15

IMPORTANT: The study guide for the semester test is posted on this page in case you want to start studying. Benson will give you a copy on Friday.

Monday
Students will take notes (on handout) as Benson continues to explain Plate Tectonics. Attention honors students: No MESPOWs this week. If you were gone (or simply want to review), take a look at the links provided below AND read text pages 248-260 (honors 194-203).

Tuesday
We will watch a video about the Mariana Trench. If you miss this class, be sure to watch it online: Video: Deepest Place on Earth (43 minutes). As you watch answer questions on the WS, which can be found on this page.

Wednesday
Students will do a group problem-solving activity related to the movement of tectonic plates. If you were gone, read text page 285 (honors 212).

Thursday
We will review several concepts related to plate tectonics, and then Benson will explain the different types of geology that take place at various plate boundaries.

Friday
Benson will tell students about the test, provide a review sheet, and then give students time to study for the test.

Question(s) of the week: What is a zone of subduction, and what are the various features and activity that take place there?

Sea-Floor Spreading Animation
What makes the plates move?
Interactive: Position of the Continents Over the Past 600 million years
Interactive Plate Tectonics Map
Read About Wegener's Last Expedition
Journey to the Deepest Place on Earth
Animation of a Hot Spot

Video of the Week

Friday, January 1, 2016

Welcome back! January 4-8

Notice: The study guide for the semester test is posted on this page in case you want to start studying.

Monday
During the two weeks before finals week (January 19-21) students will be learning about the basic structure of the Earth and plate tectonics. Today they will start watching a video titled "Magnetic Storm" (to be finished tomorrow). If a you miss this day, get online and watch the 55-minute video HERE. As you watch, answer the questions on the WS, which can be found on this page. Attention honors students: The MESPOWs this week are #20 and #118.

Tuesday
We will finish the video and then Benson will explain the different "schools of thought" pertaining to the age of the Earth. Students should read text pages 233-237 (honors 249-252)

Wednesday
Benson will explain the structure of the Earth and paleomagnetism, and then students will do a WS titled, "Plate Tectonics". If you were gone, read text pages 233-236 (honors 249-252).

Thursday
Students will watch a video titled, "Birth of the Earth". Click here to watch the video. As you watch, answer the questions on the WS, which can be found on this page.

Friday
Students will take notes as Benson explains the development of the Theory of Plate Tectonics.

Question(s) of the week: What is paleomagnetism, and how does it support the theory of plate tectonics?

Jan. 4-5: NOVA: Magnetic Storm
Jan. 5: The Northern Lights
Jan. 5: Northern Lights FAQs
Jan. 8: Interactive: Position of the Continents Over the Past 600 million years
Jan. 8: Interactive Plate Tectonics Map
Jan. 8: Read About Wegener's Last Expedition

Video of the Week