1. Hot Topics
What do I do when I finish early?
Did you finish your assignment? Have you double checked it for
correctness? Have you had a partner check it if it is group work? If
the answer is yes to all of these questions, you can begin working
on a Hot Topic. Simply put, Hot Topics are articles collected from
scientific journals, Science channels such as discovery,
newspapers, or online news sites. You are responsible for 2 Hot Topic
articles per 9-weeks (two is the minimum). The articles need to be
on modern/current events or somehow related to current science
trends. They may be discussing new technology or a new field of
science. To receive full credit for Hot Topics, you must complete all of
the following:
Read articles of your choosing. Articles can be found in the Hot Topics
bin in the classroom, credible websites, news agencies, magazines,
newspapers.
The library is a great source for modern events science magazines:
Popular Mechanics Popular Science
Science News
Scientific America National Geographic
Newsweek
Type a one page review of the article. The review must include:
Citation for article. I have to be able to find the source! If I can’t find it
then I won’t grade it!
Summary of article. 1 to 2 paragraphs.
Brief description of the science involved. 1 to 2 paragraphs.
Your reflection – How does the topic of this article affect you?
How does it affect society? Do you think this
technology/science is a good idea? Can you foresee any
problems with this technology/science? Why did you choose
to read this article?

2. Each article will be worth 10 points for a total of 20 points at the end
of the nine-weeks.
Each write up, if done properly, will be between 1 to 2 pages. Not
more than 2 and not less than 1.
Due dates will be announced in accordance with the end of the 9-
week periods.
*Bonus point opportunities: Students may complete 2 additional Hot
Topics per nine weeks for an additional 5 pts each (10 total). The
same format must be followed.