Digital Commons Network^™

Defining Anuran Malformations In The Context Of A Developmental Problem, Carol U. Meteyer, Rebecca A. Cole, Kathryn A. Converse, Douglas E. Docherty, Mark Wolcott, Judy C. Helgen, Richard Levey, Laura Eaton-Poole, James G. Burkhart

Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS

This paper summarizes terminology and general concepts involved in animal development for the purpose of providing background for the study and understanding of frog malformations. The results of our radiographic investigation of rear limb malformations in Rana pipiens provide evidence that frog malformations are the product of early developmental errors. Although bacteria, parasites and viruses were identified in these metamorphosed frogs, the relevant window to look for the teratogenic affect of these agents is in the early tadpole stage during limb development. As a result, our microbiological findings must be regarded as inconclusive relative to determining their contribution to malformations …

A Relationship Between Trematode Metacercariae And Bullfrog Limb Abnormalities, James L. Christiansen, Heather Feltman

Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS

This study is the first report of statistically significant relationships between limb abnormalities and trematode metacercariae in natural populations of frogs. We examined only parasite associations and did not investigate numerous potential pollutants that have been suggested by others to be associated with frog limb abnormalities. Rana catesbeiana of varying ages with a variety of limb abnormalities were found during the flood of 1993. By June 1994, the receding flood waters had left four pools, each with newly metamorphosing bullfrogs. Only one of the pools contained abnormal individuals and histological examination revealed significantly greater prevalence of trematode metacercarial infection in …

Morphological Abnormalities In Illinois Cricket Frogs, Acris Crepitans, 1968-71, Robert H. Gray

Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS

Reports of malformed amphibians have been increasing, including external deformities such as missing or extra arms and legs, missing eyes and mandibles, and internal abnormalities involving the bladder, digestive system, and testes. Natural phenomena such as limb amputations during predation attempts by other animals, parasitism, xenobiotic chemicals (herbicides, insecticides, fertilizers and others), and UV-B or other radiation (either directly or indirectly by triggering production of toxicants from nontoxic chemicals) have all been linked to amphibian abnormalities. From 1968-71, I studied the natural history, effective breeding size, and seasonal, annual, and geographic variation in color morph frequencies of cricket frogs (Acris …

Amphibian Use Of Constructed Ponds On Maryland's Eastern Shore, Catherine E. Merovich, James H. Howard

Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS

Amphibian assemblages were sampled at nine constructed ponds (three in each age category: new ponds-age <1 yr, young ponds-age 4-5 yr, old ponds-age >30 yr) on Maryland's eastern shore (May-October 1994, March-August 1995) using a total of 27 drift fence and funnel trap arrays. The importance of habitat and landscape variables including pond age was considered in explaining amphibian use and distribution across ponds. Specifically, amphibian (1) abundance; (2) composition; (3) diversity; (4) richness; and (5) reproductive success were studied. During both years, we captured 1904 individuals comprising ten species. The most frequently collected species (species found in all treatments) were Bufo fowleri, Rana sphenocephala utricularius, and Rana …

A Winter/Spring Study Of Salamanders In A Disturbed, Fragmented Habitat Surrounded By Farm Land, James C. Ball

Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS

The continued development of fragmented habitats contributes to the decline of amphibians species, and there needs to be a method for evaluating the potential of these habitats to sustain amphibian populations. The effect of fragmented and disturbed habitats among salamander species is difficult to assess because these caudates are difficult to find and enumerate. One approach for estimating the total population of salamanders is to sample them when they migrate to their winter/spring breeding ponds. One fragmented habitat in Southern Michigan was sampled for breeding salamanders during the winter/spring of 1997. Four species of salamanders were detected at this site; …

Amphibians And Reptiles Captured In Drift Fences In Northwest Wisconsin Pine Barrens, James O. Evrard, Steven R. Hoffman

Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS

Drift fence surveys were initiated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) in the Crex Meadows Wildlife Area (CMWA) in 1993. Systematic drift fence trapping of amphibians and reptiles in the northwest pine barrens was conducted in a 1996- 97 cooperative effort by the WDNR, the U.S. Forest Service (USFS), and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC). Drift fences were operated in four managed barrens properties, the CMWA, Namekagon Barrens Wildlife Area (NBWA), the Douglas County Wildlife Area (DCWA), and the Moquah Barrens Wildlife Area (MBWA). Eighteen amphibian and reptile species (four salamanders, eight anurans, one …

Frog And Toad Population Monitoring In Michigan, Lori G. Sargent

Journal of the Iowa Academy of Science: JIAS

A volunteer-based monitoring project for frog and toad populations in Michigan was initiated in 1996. The survey protocols developed by the North American Amphibian Monitoring Program (NAAMP) were used and modified to suit the needs of the Michigan project and because of the highly variable Michigan spring weather. The modifications include route establishment, recommended dates during which surveys are conducted, and a more specific definition of population indices. Development of the project included training workshops for volunteers.

Eve Of All Saints, Patricia O'Donnell

Short Story

No abstract provided.

The Wrath Of Poseidon: The Influence Of Water On Strategy And Tactics Of Ancient Greek Warfare, Ben Nietzel

Presidential Scholars Theses (1990 – 2006)

This paper is a historical look at the influence of geography on people. Water had a great influence on the tactics and strategies of Greek armies. Books and journal articles were utilized in looking at how water issues influenced the decisions of commanders and the outcomes of battles. Water was a major influence on the tactics and strategies of the Ancient Greeks. It played out in issues of transportation, defense, and the supply. Water concerns permeated every aspect of the Greek warfare, showing itself influential in the outcomes of battles and wars. This paper seeks to show how the commanders …

Using Technology To Support The Implementation Of Vocabulary And Comprehension Strategies, Lisa Beames

Graduate Research Papers

This project is a workshop intended to enhance teacher knowledge of assisting students in comprehending informational text. It is supported by research and maintains the instructional goals of providing participants with not only knowledge of current research, but also provides for the development of age and content appropriate hands-on graphic organizers. Graphic organizers are a strategy that have been documented to hold great potential in improving reading comprehension.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder : Developments In The Last Decade Concerning Causes And Treatments, Phyllis Damgaard

Graduate Research Papers

The last ten years have brought major advances in the fields of medicine and technology, advances that have illuminated many of the dark comers of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This article seeks to pull together those illuminating advances, condensing the voluminous information available into comprehensive, but readable, pages. The causes of the disorder are discussed from both the scientific and psychological/social perspectives. The controversy resulting from medicating so many, so young is an integral part of this country's interest in ADHD, due largely to coverage by the popular media.

Research concerning successful treatment strategies is also discussed. Medication, behavior …

Writers Workshops In A Second Grade Classroom, Marilyn M. Brown

Graduate Research Papers

A writers workshop is a community of writers who work together to promote the thinking, language, and specifically writing abilities of its members. Writers are encouraged to take risks and engage in print in purposeful ways. The emphasis of writers workshop is creating meaning. When writers realize that they are in charge of their writing, it becomes meaningful and authentic.

This discussion describes the implementation of writers workshops in a second grade classroom. The writing development of three students was focused on in this implementation stage. The students chosen represented a range of abilities and backgrounds.

Teacher-Controlled Web Pages And Their Impact On Home/School Communication, Colleen S. Hobus

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this action research project was to examine teacher-controlled Web pages and how they can impact school/home communication. Thirty-three eighth grade parents voluntarily responded to a survey about the communication practices between the eighth grade teachers and eighth grade parents in the Avoca-Hancock-Shelby-Tennant School District.A teacher-controlled Web page was set up and put into practice for a one and one-half month period. Parents and students were encouraged to access the Web page for daily assignment updates and special announcements.

At the end of the one and one-half month period, the parents were surveyed again and the results indicated …

Portfolios As A Qualitative Writing Assessment Technique In A First Grade Classroom, Nancy F. Miller

Graduate Research Papers

Writing is a process. To assess involvement in a process, it needs to be described. Therefore, qualitative assessment needs to be applied. Portfolios, supported by other descriptive techniques, can be used not only to assess children's writing progress and instructional needs but to connect instruction and assessment. A collection of writing exhibits in a portfolio collected over time can show children, their teachers, and their caregivers progress and can assist them in setting goals for language activity and instruction in the future. Use of qualitative assessment rubrics, surveys, and parental involvement in the process of self-assessing are techniques from which …

Poetry Experiences Across The Fourth-Grade Curriculum, Linda M. Nelson

Graduate Research Papers

The genre of poetry can.foster children's personal-social and thinking-language abilities. Poetry offers much pleasure for children, insight into their lives' and those of others, and models for their expression.

When teachers understand children's poetry preferences and ways to present this genre, it can add another dimension across the curriculum. Poetry experiences reported m this article were presented incidentally and in the social studies program of a fourth-grade classroom. Webbing conducted to identify important concepts in a social studies unit supported the fourth-graders poetry writing. Poetry forms were taught for children to use as structures for their writing.

What Is The Significance Of Online Technology As A Training Tool, Thomas Clifton Peterson

Graduate Research Papers

This paper examines the current directions and future trends of using online sources and activities as a tool for learning. It concentrates on the developmental progress of the most powerful force shaping the evolution of this technology: the Internet. As we enter the 21st Century, online training is becoming the dominant educational technology. The Internet has succeeded in removing the time and space barriers to online multimedia instruction.

Circles Of Literary Learning In The Kindergarten Classroom, Jayne Purdy

Graduate Research Papers

This study examined the effects of literature circles on literary learning for kindergarten students. Fourteen children were divided into groups for the purpose of reading and discussing several different fictional stories over a 6-month period. A wide variety of literature was used that reflected the units of study for each month. The children met in literature circles weekly to discuss a story with their peers. Anecdotal records and observations indicated that the students were demonstrating an increased interest in literature. A comparison of pre- and post-tests showed growth in the students' abilities to analyze and interpret stories. (Real names of …

Writing Portfolios In A First Grade Classroom, Mary J. Rezac

Graduate Research Papers

The portfolio is one of several authentic, qualitative assessment techniques used to describe children's involvement in the writing process. Portfolios provide opportunities for children to become active participants in their own learning and assessment. They can become partners with the teacher as together they assess progress and set goals for future learning.

This paper examines the implementation of writing portfolios in a first grade classroom. The focus is on two reluctant writers. Throughout the school year, they collaborated with the teacher in selecting exhibits for their portfolio collections. While engaging in the portfolio collection process, the children assessed progress and …

Design And Implementation Of A University Department Website, Margaret M. Rick

Graduate Research Papers

The website design cycle consists of four important components: (1) planning, (2) production, (3) implementation, and (4) operation. Within these components are a variety of vital tasks ranging from defining the objective and audience to conceptualizing the site, determining content, and creating, testing, and revising the site. Numerous rules or accepted principles guide the design process from color and font selection, to graphic creation, to site navigation layout. Once created, a website must be maintained: content should be updated and outside links verified on a regular basis. A site that is not maintained or kept current is of no benefit …

Implementing A Writing Program In Grade Two, Denise A. Sasse

Graduate Research Papers

Writing is a process to create meaning. This process consists of many components: prewriting, drafting, redrafting, editing, and publishing. Children need the following support measures: oral storytelling, genuine audiences, teacher modeling, literature experiences, the reading-writing connection, time to write, and emphasis on the use of one's own voice. The connection of instruction and assessment is another important aspect of a children's writing program. The following qualitative assessment techniques provide this connection: journaling, student-teacher conferences, checklists, and portfolios.

Reading Comprehension Through Technology : The Accelerated Reader Program, Janette Schmidt

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of this paper is to research the Accelerated Reader program, a computerized reading program, to see if it did improve reading skills. The Accelerated Reader program has received a lot of attention because of the belief that students are not learning to read. This is a program that has been marketed well and promises to produce results in reading skill performance. Some educators have questioned the Accelerated Reader program because of the expense and the method of motivation. Both sides of this issue will be discussed in this paper.

A Literature Base To Promote Peer Discussion Groups In A Third-Grade Reading Program, Angela L. Seifert

Graduate Research Papers

A decided trend in the literature-based reading program movement in the elementary school is the discussion of ideas that have been generated during the reading process. These interactions with peers and teachers can assist children in constructing meaning from the text and in considering alternative interpretations of the text, thus extending their thinking-language abilities.

To extend discussion in a third-grade classroom, an annotated list of picture books to accompany some of the designated themes of the reading program have been developed. An example teacher-directed lesson to promote inference-making through discussion is also included.

Developing And Managing An E-Business, Stephanie Tekippe

Graduate Research Papers

Papa Bear Acres created its first e-business in the fall of 1999. Stephanie TeKippe designed and currently manages the web sites, which are operational. Creating a successful e-business on the Internet is not an easy task, but a complicated and tedious one. Rudi, an Internet marketing specialist, stated ( 1999) "Over 94% of all online small businesses are currently losing money"(p.1-2). Papa Bear Acres was created to become a booming presence on the Internet. The process of making this a reality has been slower and more time consuming than anticipated. There are many various aspects to creating a successful e-business. …

Reading To Heal: Bibliotherapy With Children, Kimberly Ann Wilkin

Graduate Research Papers

This paper presents a counseling intervention, bibliotherapy, as an adjunctive approach to helping children resolve problems. An overview of the definition and history of bibliotherapy, the effectiveness as an intervention as well as goals, stages, application, limitations, and benefits are included. Additionally, an appendix with recommended bibliotherapy books are provided.

Building An Instructional Model For The High School Of The 21st Century, Cindy Winckler

Graduate Research Papers

High schools are the last frontier of change in the K-12 educational setting. In order to meet the needs of today's students, teachers must create systemic change. This research studied ways to build an instructional model for high schools of the 21 st century. The sources were selected from published literature about brain research, lesson design. school reform and studies of education systems between countries. The design of an instructional model for high schools was developed, using the research from literature reviews. Teaching methods, not teachers are at the heart of this reform.

Motivating Students With Accelerated Reader, Kirsten J. Wrieden

Graduate Research Papers

Excitement was obvious at Wells-Carey Elementary that day. If you did not know better, you might think it was picture day, the day of a field trip or maybe even the day of the Halloween parties. The students were busy as bees going about their daily morning routines. Smiles proliferated and nary a squabble could be seen. What was happening? What could be the reason for the excitement and unusually well-behaved students? Why, it was the opening day for the Accelerated Reader incentive store!

Does Peer Technology Training Work?, Kim Foley-Sharp

Graduate Research Papers

This research project contains lessons that were developed as a staff development tool for North High School in the Davenport Community School District. The goal of this project was to implement the use of new technology into the school building by providing the staff of the building with immediate access to trainers who would help if there were a problem or to answer questions. The other responsibilities of the trainers were to facilitate staff development sessions during the school day and on in-service days. The ultimate goal of the project was to make staff comfortable in the use of technology …

Writing Opportunities To Extend Literacy For At-Risk Children In Grade One, Judy K. Torrens

Graduate Research Papers

The purpose of the study was to examine the effectiveness of writing on the early literacy learning of students who were performing below grade level in reading. Professional literature supports the theoretical formulation that writing nurtures young children's emerging literacy. For a first-grade classroom, a print-rich environment was created that provided daily opportunities for the students to experiment with writing. The children were able to construct their knowledge of the world through the writing process and to refine their knowledge of written language abilities in purposeful situations. They had many opportunities to connect reading and writing.

The Evolving Child: Theories Of Human Development In Waldorf Education, Sara Wright

Presidential Scholars Theses (1990 – 2006)

Due to its strong emphasis on spiritual development in conjunction with physical and cognitive development, Rudolf Steiner's educational philosophy and its role in Waldorf schools have been relegated to relative obscurity within the educational establishment. Steiner's theories have been perceived as too radical and unusual for incorporation into traditional educational practices. However, upon closer examination, the organizational structure of Steiner's developmental theory bears significant similarities to better-known models of human development. For example, the division of children's cognitive growth into a hierarchical series of stages is also found in Piaget's celebrated model of human development. Furthermore, parallel revelations concerning children's …

Reading/Writing Connection, Sandra J. Carpenter

Graduate Research Papers

Reading and writing have many common tasks. Children's language abilities are nurtured through instructional practices that connect these commonalities. In a second-grade language arts program, tasks presented through reading instruction were related to children's writing experiences. To support the reading-writing connection, a strong literature base was created. This base offered models of language and focuses for discussions to relate the commonalities of the processes. The teacher traced the transfer of reading instruction to the children's writing through a collection of their writing pieces.