Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Activities
BioHackathon Launch - Students form teams and brainstorm innovative solutions for real-world biological challenges, focusing on macromolecules and cellular processes (60 min)
Introduction to Macromolecules - Students explore the structure and function of major macromolecules through interactive group activities, focusing on proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids (40 min)
Macromolecule Function Discussion - Teams discuss how these macromolecules impact cellular processes, sharing insights and questions (20 min)
Enzyme Activity Investigation Design - Teams design an experiment to test how environmental factors affect enzyme activity, preparing materials and methodology (45 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Students present their experimental designs to peers for feedback and refinement (15 min)
Cell Structure Exploration - Interactive workshop where students build models of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells using recycled materials, focusing on structural differences and complexity (50 min)
Cell Comparison Presentation - Teams share their models and findings, emphasizing the unique functions of different cell types (10 min)
Enzyme Experiment Execution - Students conduct their enzyme activity experiments, collecting data and making observations (50 min)
Reflection and Data Sharing - Teams reflect on their findings and share initial results with the class, preparing for further analysis (10 min)
Deliverables
1. Submit a team-written proposal outlining the chosen real-world biological challenge from the BioHackathon, including initial ideas for innovative solutions and a comparison between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.
Preparation 1. Gather recycled materials such as cardboard, plastic bottles, and paper for cell model construction.
2. Prepare a list of household materials and instructions for the enzyme activity experiment.
3. Set up a digital platform (e.g., Google Classroom) for students to share and receive feedback on their BioHackathon ideas.
4. Coordinate with biology department representatives from the local university to schedule guest lectures in the coming weeks.
5. Arrange the classroom or a suitable space for the BioHackathon event, ensuring teams have materials and space for brainstorming.
Week 2
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Enzyme Experiment Data Analysis - Students analyze the data collected from their enzyme activity experiments, identifying patterns and drawing conclusions on how environmental factors affect enzyme activity (40 min)
Group Discussion - Teams engage in a collaborative discussion to compare their experimental findings, sharing insights and supporting conclusions with evidence (20 min)
Modeling Cellular Processes - Students use interactive digital tools to create models illustrating photosynthesis and cellular respiration, highlighting energy transformation (45 min)
Feedback Session - Peers review and provide feedback on each other's models, focusing on accuracy and clarity of processes (15 min)
DNA and RNA Exploration - Students create diagrams to illustrate how DNA and RNA direct the synthesis of proteins, emphasizing the role of nucleic acids in cellular functions (30 min)
Protein Synthesis Simulation - Interactive activity where students simulate protein synthesis, consolidating their understanding of the process (30 min)
Cellular Division Workshop - Students participate in a hands-on workshop to model cellular division processes, focusing on reproduction, growth, and repair (50 min)
Reflection and Q&A - Students reflect on the cellular division processes and engage in a Q&A session to clarify any doubts (10 min)
Homeostasis Investigation - Students conduct a guided investigation to explore how feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis, using real-life examples of physiological processes (45 min)
Summary Presentation - Teams present their findings on homeostasis, explaining the feedback mechanisms and their importance in maintaining equilibrium (15 min)
Deliverables
1. A written lab report detailing the enzyme experiment, including hypothesis, methodology, data, analysis, and conclusions.
2. A storyboard or draft of the digital animation illustrating enzyme catalysis, to be refined in subsequent weeks.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for enzyme models (clay, craft supplies) and ensure access to computers for animation work.
2. Prepare lab stations with necessary equipment and reagents for enzyme experiments, ensuring safety protocols are in place.
3. Coordinate with the guest lecturer from the local university and prepare a space for their presentation.
4. Create a structured feedback form for 'Feedback Friday' to guide peer review and ensure constructive criticism.
5. Secure software or online tools for creating digital animations, and provide a brief tutorial or guide on their use.
Week 3
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Activities
Feedback and Revision Session - Students present enzyme experiment findings to peers for constructive feedback, focusing on clarity and scientific accuracy to refine their methodologies (30 min)
Modeling Cell Processes Workshop - Teams build interactive 3D models of cellular organelles using recycled materials, focusing on the structure-function relationship (30 min)
Photosynthesis and Cellular Respiration Animation Creation - Students work in teams to storyboard and begin digital animation projects illustrating energy transformation processes (40 min)
Peer Review - Teams exchange storyboards and provide feedback on scientific accuracy and clarity (20 min)
Guest Lecture from University Biologist - Students attend an interactive session on the latest research in enzyme activity and macromolecule functions, linking to real-world applications (40 min)
Reflection and Q&A - Students reflect on the lecture and engage in a Q&A to deepen understanding (20 min)
Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cell Infographic Design - Students create infographics comparing cell types, emphasizing structural differences and complexity (45 min)
Critique and Revision - Structured peer feedback session to refine infographic designs (15 min)
Documentary Film Production - Teams begin filming their documentary exploring enzyme catalysis, incorporating interviews and visuals to enhance understanding (45 min)
Feedback Friday - Present progress on all projects, receiving peer and instructor feedback to ensure alignment with learning goals (15 min)
Deliverables
1. A lab report detailing the methodology, data, and conclusions from the enzyme activity experiments.
2. Completed 3D models of cellular organelles, showcasing structure and function.
3. Draft versions of digital animations on photosynthesis and cellular respiration, ready for peer review.
4. Infographics comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, prepared for digital presentation.
Preparation 1. Gather necessary materials for enzyme experiments, including enzymes, substrates, and environmental factor modifiers (e.g., buffers, temperature control equipment).
2. Collect recycled materials for building 3D models of cellular organelles.
3. Ensure access to software and digital tools for creating animations and infographics.
4. Coordinate peer feedback sessions, providing guidelines and rubrics for constructive critique.
5. Set up a digital platform for students to submit and share their infographics and animations for peer review.
Week 4
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
3D Model Refinement - Teams refine their interactive 3D models of cellular organelles, ensuring scientific accuracy and enhancing visual appeal (30 min)
Digital Animation Continuation - Students continue creating digital animations of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, focusing on detailed energy transformations (30 min)
Collaborative Infographic Workshop - Students collaborate to finalize infographics comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, emphasizing structural and functional differences (40 min)
Documentary Film Planning - Teams outline the documentary structure, identifying key topics and expert interviews on enzyme catalysis (20 min)
Expert Interview Session - Students conduct interviews with local university biology experts for their documentary film, focusing on enzyme function and real-world applications (40 min)
Reflection and Synthesis - Teams reflect on insights gained from expert interviews, integrating new information into their documentary plans (20 min)
Final Animation Edits - Students complete and polish their digital animations, ensuring scientific accuracy and clarity (30 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Teams share their animations and infographics, receiving feedback on clarity, accuracy, and presentation (30 min)
Documentary Film Editing - Teams begin editing their documentary footage, integrating interview clips and visual elements to convey enzyme catalysis (40 min)
BioExpo Preparation - Students prepare their projects for the BioExpo, organizing materials and rehearsing presentations (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Create and present a digital animation illustrating the processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration, highlighting energy transformation.
2. Develop a short documentary film exploring enzyme catalysis, incorporating interviews from local biology experts.
Preparation 1. Arrange access to digital animation software and resources for students to create visual models of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
2. Coordinate interviews with guest biology experts for the documentary film; prepare questions and filming equipment.
3. Set up a feedback session with healthcare professionals to review students' animations and documentaries at the end of the week.
4. Gather materials for video editing and production, ensuring students have access to necessary devices and software.
5. Provide students with examples and tutorials on effective storytelling and documentary film techniques.
Week 5
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Day 25
Activities
BioExpo Preparation - Students finalize their interactive 3D models, animations, and infographics for the upcoming BioExpo presentation, ensuring all elements are complete and accurate (60 min)
Film Editing and Final Cuts - Teams work on editing their documentary films, incorporating interviews and visuals to enhance the exploration of enzyme catalysis (45 min)
Peer Review Session - Teams exchange documentary films with peers for feedback on clarity and scientific accuracy (15 min)
Final Presentation Rehearsal - Students rehearse their presentations for the BioExpo, focusing on clear communication and real-world application of their projects (40 min)
Guest Feedback Integration - Students receive last-minute feedback from a guest biologist and make final adjustments to their presentations (20 min)
BioExpo Exhibition - Students present their projects at the BioExpo, engaging with local healthcare professionals and receiving feedback on their work's real-world relevance (60 min)
Reflection and Peer Feedback - Students reflect on their BioExpo experience and provide feedback on peers' projects, focusing on personal growth and learning outcomes (30 min)
Project Celebration and Wrap-Up - Celebrate the completion of the project with a group reflection session, discussing the skills and insights gained throughout the project (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Finalized interactive 3D models of cellular organelles
2. Digital animations illustrating photosynthesis and cellular respiration
3. Infographics comparing prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
4. Short documentary film exploring enzyme catalysis
Preparation 1. Arrange the venue and logistics for the BioExpo, including space for displays and seating for attendees.
2. Coordinate with local healthcare professionals and university experts to confirm their attendance and participation in the BioExpo.
3. Ensure availability of digital screens and projectors for displaying animations and the documentary film.
4. Prepare feedback forms for guests to provide structured feedback to students during the BioExpo.