PERSONAL BIOGRAPHY:

Hello class, my name is Jasley Gonzalez and I'm a student at Coral Gables Senior High School. I'm 15 years old and my birthday is April 20th. I was born and raised in Miami and grew up in a Cuban household. I love traveling, especially to tropical places like Mexico, and the Dominican Republic and enjoy visiting my family in Cuba from time to time. My days mostly consist of focusing on my schoolwork and other activities like playing games, watching funny shows, or talking to my best friends. I get along well with many people but mostly hang around my 2 best friends and my older sister. My 2 best friends Isabella and Lyz who I've known since elementary school have always stuck by my side. My older sister is 21 and I tend to hang out with her often and go explore places with groups of friends from time to time. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family often and also enjoy listening to music and going to my favorite artist's concerts. I've volunteered to help after-school programs at school and worked summer jobs in retail. I've enjoyed these experiences and learned much from them over time. I enjoy getting this opportunity to take this class and look forward to getting to know you all. 😊

INITIAL RESPONSES:

1. Hello Samantha, I'm Jasley. I can relate to you on the fact that I can also act a bit shy but enjoy getting to meet new people. I enjoy listening to new music and would love to listen to your playlist sometime. Spanish was also my first language since my parents are Cuban and I would enjoy getting to know you better this semester. 😊

2. Hey Maritere! I can relate to you on the fact that I enjoy listening to music too. I think I probably listen to music almost all day whenever I can. It helps me do my schoolwork and get through the day too. Me and I seem to have similar routines since I pretty much prioritize my school all the time. I look forward to starting this new semester with you and thank you for sharing! 😁

1 will present to 5
2 will present to 6
3 will present to 7
4 will present to 8 + 9

Then . . .

5 will present to 8 and 2
6 will present to 7
7 will present to 6 and 3
8 will present to 5
9 will present to 1

Viral replication mechanisms vary depending on the virus's genome, whether DNA or RNA. While DNA viruses utilize host cell proteins for replication, RNA viruses often encode their own enzymes due to the instability of RNA polymerases. This results in more frequent mutations, leading to rapid evolution and challenges in vaccine development, as seen with influenza.

The viral replication cycle typically involves attachment, penetration, uncoating, replication, assembly, and release. Viruses cause a range of diseases in animals, including humans, from mild ailments to life-threatening illnesses like meningitis. Vaccination is the primary method of controlling viral diseases, offering immunity through weakened live viruses, killed viruses, or molecular subunits. Antiviral drugs offer another approach to treating viral infections by inhibiting viral proteins or replication processes. Despite challenges such as viral mutation and drug resistance, antivirals have been successful in managing diseases like HIV.

TOPIC: Sea Level Rise and Ecosystems

By Team 3: Mariandree Bran Morales, Jasley Gonzalez, Meylin Ham, Cesia Martinez, Karina Nunez

1. Fobar, Rachel. “Is This Paradise a Parking Lot? This Florida Ecosystem Is a Battleground.” Animals, 7 Dec. 2023, www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/pine-rockland-ecosystem-restoration-miami-wilds. 

The National Geographic piece explores efforts to restore Miami's Pine Rockland ecosystem. Facing threats from urbanization and invasive species, conservationists are working to revive this unique habitat. Through partnerships and community engagement, initiatives aim to preserve biodiversity and protect endemic species. The restoration offers hope for maintaining this vital ecosystem amidst urban growth and environmental challenges in our own backyards.

2. Katel, Jake. “Seven Ecosystems in Watery Miami.” Medium, Medium, 13 Oct. 2020, waterymiami.medium.com/seven-ecosystems-in-watery-miami-38bb4a5fcb42. 

The Medium article by Katel and Jake explores the diverse ecosystems found in Miami, which thrive in its watery environment. Highlighting seven distinct ecosystems, including mangroves, coral reefs, and freshwater marshes, the piece delves into their significance and challenges. From providing habitat for unique wildlife to offering protection against storms and erosion, these ecosystems play crucial roles. However, they face threats like pollution and climate change, necessitating conservation efforts for their survival. 

3. Irfan, Umair. “The Ocean Is Rising - and So Is Miami’s Skyline.” Vox, 18 Sept. 2023,www.vox.com/climate/23872640/coastal-climate-ocean-rising-miami-florida-building. 

The Vox article by Umair Irfan discusses the impact of rising sea levels on Miami's skyline due to coastal climate changes. Exploring how the city's infrastructure and buildings are affected, it highlights the risks faced by coastal communities. From increased flooding to the necessity for resilient urban planning, the article emphasizes the urgent need for adaptation strategies. With rising waters threatening Miami's future, it calls for proactive measures to address the challenges posed by climate change.

4. “Ecosystem and Habitats.” Florida’s Coral Reef, 20 Apr. 2022, floridascoralreef.org/the-reef/ecosystem-and-habitats. 

The Florida's Coral Reef website section "Ecosystem and Habitats" provides insight into the diverse ecosystems and habitats found within the state's coral reef system. Detailing the various habitats such as coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests, the content highlights their importance for marine biodiversity and coastal protection. By exploring these ecosystems, the website aims to raise awareness about their significance and the need for conservation efforts to ensure their long-term health and resilience.

5. Services, Miami-Dade County Online. “Ecosystem Protection - Miami-Dade County.” Miami, www.miamidade.gov/environment/ecosystem-protection.asp. Accessed 20 Mar. 2024. 

The Miami-Dade County website section on "Ecosystem Protection" outlines the county's initiatives and services aimed at preserving local ecosystems. It covers various programs focusing on habitat restoration, water quality improvement, and wildlife conservation. Through partnerships with community organizations and government agencies, Miami-Dade County works to safeguard natural resources and promote sustainable development. The webpage serves as a resource hub for residents and stakeholders interested in participating in or learning about ecosystem protection efforts in the area

6. Protecting Florida habitats from sea level rise. Ocean Conservancy. (n.d.). https://oceanconservancy.org/protecting-florida/sea-level-rise-in-florida/ 

The document highlights Ocean Conservancy's efforts to protect Florida from sea level rise risks, including higher tides, saltwater intrusion, and frequent flooding. Over 7 million Florida residents, or 30% of the state's population, live within 6 feet of current sea levels. The organization has commissioned a web tool to help communities and policymakers understand threats and identify evidence-based solutions using coastal habitats to build resilience.

7. Coastal resilience: Nature-based solutions can help protect Florida’s coastline. The Nature Conservancy. (2018, November 10). https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/florida/stories-in-florida/florida-coastal-resilience/ 

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is promoting natural and nature-based infrastructure solutions to enhance coastal resilience and combat climate change in Florida. TNC is restoring mangroves, oyster reefs, coral reefs, and creating hybrid green-gray infrastructure, such as Morningside Park in Miami and Lake Worth Lagoon island. Natural ecosystems reduce storm surge better than conventional gray infrastructure and offer ecological benefits. TNC is leading in initiatives like the Southeast Florida Regional Climate Change Compact.

8. Climate impacts on ecosystems and habitats. Climate Impacts on Ecosystems and Habitats. (n.d.). https://climateadaptationexplorer.org/impacts/habitats 

The context discusses Florida's ecosystems and habitats at risk from climate change impacts, including terrestrial, coastal, freshwater, and marine/estuarine ecosystems. Key impacts include sea level rise, temperature increases, precipitation changes, drought stress, invasive species spread, and habitat degradation. Florida's diverse diversity of habitats is also highly sensitive to climate changes, highlighting the importance of addressing these issues to protect ecosystems and habitats in the state.

9. Bridges, C. A. (2023, August 23). When will Florida be completely underwater? A look at the future of sea level rise. The Palm Beach Post. https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/news/environment/2023/08/23/flooding-sea-level-oceans-rise-climate-change-emissions-noaa-predictions/70640635007/ 

We're in a rising stage, aided by human-induced climate change. Sea levels have been nearly stable 'over the last few thousand years,' according to the Florida Climate Center at Florida State University, but the global average sea level has risen about 7 to 8 inches since 1900 and nearly half of that has happened since 1993. NOAA also measures relative sea level (RSL) trends, which are local sea level measurements made with respect to a local fixed reference on land.

10. Strauss, B. (n.d.). Surging seas sea level rise analysis by Climate Central. Florida and the Rising Sea | Surging Seas: Sea level rise analysis by Climate Central. https://sealevel.climatecentral.org/news/floria-and-the-rising-sea 

Florida is in the crosshairs of climate change. Rising seas, a population crowded along the coast, porous bedrock, and the relatively common occurrence of tropical storms put more real estate and people at risk from storm surges aggravated by sea level rise in Florida than any other state by far. Sea level rise is more than doubling the risk of a storm surge at this level in South Florida by 2030.

The article talks about how ocean scientists in Miami have been tracking sea level rise for years and are calling for action to save the city. Their study emphasizes how urgent it is to take action to lessen Miami's exposure to the effects of sea level rise. Their goal is to increase consciousness and initiate practical measures to protect the city's future.

12. Sklar, F. H., Carlson, C., Coronado‐Molina, C., & Maran, A. C. (2021). Coastal Ecosystem Vulnerability and Sea Level rise (SLR) in South Florida: A mangrove transition projection. Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fevo.2021.646083

This study looks at the effects of sea level rise on South Florida's coastal ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on mangroves. Significant habitat loss and alterations in mangrove distribution are revealed by the findings. I n order to mitigate the effects of increasing sea levels, adaptive management practices are crucial, and immediate action is required to safeguard these ecosystems.

13. Gramling, C. (2024, February 2). A freshwater, saltwater tug-of-war is eating away at the Everglades. Science News. https://www.sciencenews.org/article/florida-everglades-freshwater-saltwater-sea-level-rise

An article from Science News illustrates how the Everglades are being affected by sea level rise and shows the conflict between freshwater and saltwater ecosystems. The delicate equilibrium of the Everglades is upset as a result of rising sea levels pushing saltwater farther inland, which causes ecological damage. The essay emphasizes how urgently this issue needs to be resolved in order to protect the Everglades ecosystem's distinctive biodiversity.

14. Smithson, A. (2021, July 6). Miami unveils its 40-year mitigation plan to combat sea level rise. The Architect’s Newspaper. https://www.archpaper.com/2021/07/miami-unveils-its-40-year-mitigation-plan-to-combat-sea-level-rise/

Miami unveils a 40-year plan to combat sea level rise, aiming to protect the city's future. The strategy involves community engagement, green projects, and infrastructure upgrades. It stresses the importance of proactive measures to reduce the impact of rising sea levels, highlighting resilience and adaptability. The plan reflects Miami's commitment to addressing climate change and preserving its coastline.

15. Channel, W., & Channel, W. (2017, August 14). Seas rising faster in the southeastern U.S. The Weather Channel. https://weather.com/science/environment/news/sea-level-rise-miami-study

According to The Weather Channel, Miami is primarily affected by the Southeast's more rapid sea level rise. According to research, it's exceeding global averages because of things like ocean currents and sinking terrain. To safeguard coastal populations from the growing threats posed by the region's rising sea levels, urgent adaptation measures are required.

16. Science Direct, Volume 126 (June 2016) Increasing flooding hazard in coastal communities due to rising sea level. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0964569116300278

Sea level rise (SLR) imposes an increasing flooding hazard on low-lying coastal communities due to higher exposure to high tide conditions and storm surges. Additional coastal flooding hazard arises due to the reduced effectiveness of gravity-based drainage systems to drain rainwater during heavy rain events. Over the past decade, several coastal communities along the US Atlantic coast have experienced an increasing rate of flooding events. In this study, we focus on the increasing flooding hazard in Miami Beach, Florida, which has caused severe property damage and significant disruptions to daily life. 

17. The professional geographer, volume 77 (  2019, august 17) sea level rise miami, Zell ANN. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00330124.2018.1531037

Sea level rise threatens coastal communities throughout the United States, and South Florida is on the front line. The iconic and built-up city of Miami Beach, Florida, has a well-developed, high-value property market, and the municipality has been lauded for proactively taking action to adapt to anticipated sea level rise. Moving beyond hyperbole and piecemeal evidence, we compile a comprehensive inventory of adaptation and mitigation measures implemented by various municipal agencies

18. USGS ( 2014, September 29) Hydrologic conditions in urban Miami-Dade County, Florida, and the effect of groundwater pumpage and increased sea level on canal leakage and regional groundwater flow https://pubs.usgs.gov/publication/sir20145162

The extensive and highly managed surface-water system in southeastern Florida constructed during the 20th Century has allowed for the westward expansion of urban and agricultural activities in Miami-Dade County. In urban areas of the county, the surface-water system is used to control urban flooding,  supply recharge to production well fields, and control seawater intrusion.

19. IOPSCIENCE ( 26, May 2021) More than a nuisance: measuring how sea level rise delays commuters in Miami, FL https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/abfd5c/meta

Sea level rise increases coastal cities' exposure to tidal flooding and elevates the risk of transportation routes being compromised at high tide. Using Miami, Florida as a case study, we combine tide gauge, elevation, road network, and worker location data with a route optimization algorithm to model how tidal flooding affected commute times between 2002–2004 and 2015–2017. 

20. MarineGeodesy ( 20 Nov 2014) Merged Miami Sea Level https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01490419.2015.1014584

Sea level in the vicinity of Miami, Florida, is from three separate time series: Miami Beach (1932–1980), Haulover Pier (1982–1992), and Virginia Key (1994-present). To calculate the ensemble trend in Miami's mean sea level (MSL), the three records must be merged concerning the North American Vertical Datum of 1988. 

Introduction

From now until the last class meeting we will be going over more course content material but you will also have time to work on your Final Project which consists of an at least four minute PowerPoint class presentation on your chosen problem. No reading from the PowerPoint allowed but you can use outline notes.

In order to get the best grades you need to present your chosen problem and then present a solution you are proposing to address the problem. Your PowerPoint must have a title slide and a slide showing your sources. In between, it should have at least 8 content slides. You must begin the presentation by introducing yourself Present your Portfolio (Padlet) in about 25 seconds. Then proceed showing your work, including your proposed solution. When you finish, say thank you for listening and ask the audience what questions or comments do they have.

Directions

Final Project: Dive Deep with a Presentation!

The Challenge →

As mentioned above, throughout the remaining classes, we will be delving deeper into general course content while you also embark on a project that showcases your learning.  This project culminates in a deliverable that is an at least 4-minute, in-class PowerPoint presentation.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Get ready to present to your classmates!  This presentation is your chance to shine.

What is on the Agenda?

• Problem Powerhouse → Start by clearly presenting the problem you have chosen to tackle.

• Solution Spotlight → Next, unveil your proposed solution and explain how it addresses the problem.

• Slide Savvy

  • Title Slide → Introduce yourself and your project with a catchy title.

  • Content Slides (8 slides minimum) → These slides should be visually appealing and informative, guiding your audience through your problem and solution.

  • Source Slide → Credit your sources, showing academic integrity.

• Presentation Polish

  • Introduction (about 25 seconds) → Start strong by introducing yourself confidently:  Present your Portfolio (Padlet)

  • Delivery (at least 3 and a half minutes) → Avoid reading directly from the slides. Use clear and concise language with engaging visuals to guide your presentation.

  • Conclusion (wrap it up!) → Thank your audience for their attention and invite questions or comments. (Time depends on questions from the audience)

Remember

• Outline notes are allowed to keep you on track, but memorization is key!

• Strong visuals and a clear structure will make your presentation impactful.

• Practice makes perfect! Rehearse your presentation beforehand.

Grading Gold Stars

To earn top marks, demonstrate a deep understanding of your topic, a well-developed solution, and clear communication skills.

Let's get presenting!  I am here to guide you on this project journey.  Feel free to ask questions throughout the process.

Your Final Project needs to address at least ONE of these competencies. MDC students will be able to:

→ Communicate effectively using listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.

→ Solve problems using critical and creative thinking and scientific reasoning.

→ Create strategies that can be used to fulfill personal, civic, and social responsibilities.

→ Demonstrate knowledge of ethical thinking and its application to issues in society.

→ Describe how natural systems function and recognize the impact of humans on the environment.

The Final Project is focused on people's impact and alteration of the local environment, resulting in disruption of natural or urban systems.

You will be using a problem-based approach to better understand your chosen topic!

The problem you chose is complex!  You can explore your chosen problem in many ways!  For example, by sharing perspectives of the people involved or affected.  By sharing perspectives of the species involved or affected, etc.  You decide.