{"id":235,"date":"2025-08-19T22:36:12","date_gmt":"2025-08-19T22:36:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/?page_id=235"},"modified":"2025-12-08T05:42:29","modified_gmt":"2025-12-08T05:42:29","slug":"code-221-learning-contract","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/code-221-learning-contract\/","title":{"rendered":"CODE 221 Learning Contract"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Your Goal Grade<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td>A Work<\/td><td><mark>B Work<\/mark><\/td><td>C Work<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><br>-Misses one class or less, or completes make-up work for excused absences<br>-Annotates all readings thoroughly<br>-Makes substantive comments in discussions<br>-Completes&nbsp;<strong>all<\/strong>&nbsp;assignments&nbsp;<strong>on time<\/strong>&nbsp;(or has an approved extension request)<br>-Work demonstrates intellectual engagement, care, effort, and growth in response to feedback<br>-Collaborates substantially, contributes to vision, works equally with peers<\/td><td>-Misses two classes or less, or completes make-up work for excused absences<br>-Annotates readings&nbsp;-Often participates in discussion<br>-Completes all major assignments&nbsp;<strong>on time&nbsp;<\/strong>(or has an approved extension request)<br>-Completes most SAs&nbsp;<strong>on time<\/strong><br>-Work demonstrates care, effort and growth in response to feedback<br>-Collaborates equally, completes required work<\/td><td>-Misses three classes or less, or completes make-up work for excused absences<br>-Completes most readings<br>-Sometimes adds to discussion<br>-Completes&nbsp;<strong>all<\/strong>&nbsp;major assignments on time (or has an approved extension request)<br>-Completes at least four SAs<br>-Meets minimal expectations on assignments; shows limited growth in response to feedback<br>-Completes required collaborative work<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">First-Week Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This semester in codes is exciting and I\u2019m looking forward to better things this semester.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Midterm Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>This midterm semester I have built relationship with my CODES groups. Recently, my group and I went to visit a site and this was very interesting to me. As we go toward the end of the semester, I look forward to experiencing more in the end. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final Introduction<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Now it is the end of the semester, it has been a journey. This semester has been different because I got to learn more about groups and experiencing that very thing we discussed the first weeks of codes 221 class.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Course Goals&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose five goals from the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/iris.siue.edu\/codes\/instructors\/curriculum-resources\/learning-outcomes\/\">CODES Student Learning Outcomes<\/a>&nbsp;that you\u2019d like to work toward. Choose goals that are&nbsp;<strong>relevant<\/strong>&nbsp;to the scope of this course, select artifacts\/examples based on&nbsp;<strong>activities assigned for this course<\/strong>, and explain characteristics in a way that illustrates&nbsp;<strong>how your artifacts\/examples demonstrate your progress<\/strong>&nbsp;toward the goal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Goal 1 (<\/strong>20%)<br>Based on : (3c):Applies ethical concepts to a question and considers their full implications.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>What will you do to learn the content\/ develop the skill?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What examples will you add to the portfolio to demonstrate your learning?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What characteristics of the chosen examples demonstrate you have met your goal?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>I will consider the questions on my assignment and answer them with clarity. <\/td><td>Implementation plan<br>reflection 2<br>reflection 3<br>reflection 4<br><br><\/td><td>Explanation that is understandable<br>Answers with clarity<br><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Before going onsite, all I needed was clarification so I can do my part with no confusing. Before going I just imagined us walking in a park. My plan, as discussed with the JJK is I will be working and researching about the species that is in that area. Not just that, I will also be designing the charts and flyer for the data me and my partner Aiden will gather. Honestly the only obstacle I would say is there is if im overloaded with work or may not understand what to do. My partners and I are excited especially since we had a good site visit and it went well and everyone knows what they are doing. Sometimes the barriers to building trust is not knowing the person, how the person act, and bad experiences from the past. I will keep in contact with my team and make sure we are on the same page and help each other out as needed. We went on the site and outside was nice but it is still in construction. We talked about the plans and how we could help out by researching certain things for the JJK.  <\/strong>&#8211; reflection  2.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:1000\">This evidence I have chose, my reflection because it shows that I applied the concept and answered the questions fully. I clarified my answers and showed my understanding. I mentioned how in our meeting we discussed our needs and implications for the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Eriel &#8211; The outcome of my research will be good for the JJK to help them understand what environment will be safe and healthy for the animals and other species. By me studying in the area and what animals and creatures live there, I will have a better understanding of what the need is and how all species will get along in the environment. I need to know your needs and if the information I am giving you helpful or not. I can benefit from this because it shows me what more I need to do and how you can help me get it done.&nbsp;Eriel: The data I will need to answer my question is ethnographies. I will observe the animals and do research on what environments are helpful to the animals. My last CODE class we collected data on ethnography and how much people liked east St. Louis parks. We went to two parks in east St. Louis and observed the parks and all that were in it. We did a group presentation on that ethnographic project on east St. Louis. By doing that ethnography in my other CODES class, I now have experience doing them and they also can benefit by the jjk an idea of what might be helpful to the environment for animals.&nbsp;&#8211; Implementation plan<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\" style=\"font-style:normal;font-weight:800\">This is another evidence for this goal. I chose this evidence because I also clarified and answered the questions presented to me. I also discussed my plan for my part and the future. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Yes, I have completed a couple of on-site visits at JJK Fan, and each one was a really positive experience for me. During the meetings, we went over the plans for JJK and talked about what tasks they needed us to complete. At first, I felt nervous because I didn\u2019t want to miss any important details or end up doing something wrong. But as the conversations went on, I realized how important communication and confidence are in situations like that. I think my behavior influenced the interactions in a good way because I stayed focused and made sure to show that I was listening. Even when I needed clarification, I didn\u2019t let that keep me from paying attention to what was being explained. In the past, I sometimes struggled with situations where I didn\u2019t fully understand something someone said. Instead of asking questions, I would try to figure it out on my own, and most of the time it didn\u2019t work out the way it should have. This experience helped me understand the difference between simply listening and actually hearing what someone is saying. Hearing means paying attention, processing the information, and making sure the message is clear. I\u2019ve learned that speaking up when something is confusing doesn\u2019t make me look unprepared; it actually helps avoid mistakes and builds stronger communication. Working with JJK Fan has pushed me to grow in how I listen, communicate, and collaborate with others. I feel more comfortable asking questions when I need to, and I\u2019ve gotten better at staying engaged during discussions. Overall, the site visits taught me a lot about how to present myself, how to interact with people professionally, and how to make sure I understand what is expected of me. &#8211; reflection 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">I collected data on animals by researching the key things they need to survive and thrive in their natural habitats. First, I chose which animals I wanted to focus on, and then I went deeper into their habits, environments, and the challenges they face. I decided to focus on frogs in southern Illinois because they play an important role in the ecosystem, but many of them are experiencing serious declines. Some frog species in this region are considered threatened, meaning their populations are dropping and they could eventually disappear if their habitats keep getting damaged. This usually happens because of habitat loss, pollution, and environmental changes caused by human activity. Three of the most threatened frog species in southern Illinois are the Illinois Chorus Frog, the Bird-voiced Treefrog, and the Eastern Narrow mouthed Toad. The Illinois Chorus Frog lives in sandy prairies and relies on temporary ponds for breeding, but these areas are shrinking due to farming and land development. The Bird-voiced Treefrog depends on forested wetlands and cypress swamps, which are disappearing as more land is cleared. The Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad needs moist environments and spends most of its time under logs or leaf litter, but it struggles to survive when wetlands are drained or destroyed. While doing this research, I learned just how fragile these species really are and how closely their survival depends on healthy environments. Understanding their needs such as clean water, safe breeding spaces, and natural food sources helps us figure out how to protect them. This project made me realize that studying animals is not just about gathering facts. It is about seeing how everything in nature is connected. Protecting frogs means protecting the balance of their entire ecosystem, and that helped me understand why conservation work is so important. &#8211; reflection 4 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Goal 2 (<\/strong>20%)<br>Based on (4b): Uses deep knowledge of global systems to develop and advocate for informed, appropriate action to solve complex problems.<br><br><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>What will you do to learn the content\/ develop the skill?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What examples will you add to the portfolio to demonstrate your learning?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What characteristics of the chosen examples demonstrate you have met your goal?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>I will actively study how global social, environmental, and economic systems interact.<br> I will use course readings, research credible sources, and analyze real-world case studies.<\/td><td>reflection 4<br>Data on animals(CODES 221 report)<br>reflection 2<br>reflection 3<br><\/td><td>Clarification of the questions <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">I collected data on animals by researching the key things they need to survive and thrive in their natural habitats. First, I chose which animals I wanted to focus on, and then I went deeper into their habits, environments, and the challenges they face. I decided to focus on frogs in southern Illinois because they play an important role in the ecosystem, but many of them are experiencing serious declines. Some frog species in this region are considered threatened, meaning their populations are dropping and they could eventually disappear if their habitats keep getting damaged. This usually happens because of habitat loss, pollution, and environmental changes caused by human activity. Three of the most threatened frog species in southern Illinois are the Illinois Chorus Frog, the Bird-voiced Treefrog, and the Eastern Narrow mouthed Toad. The Illinois Chorus Frog lives in sandy prairies and relies on temporary ponds for breeding, but these areas are shrinking due to farming and land development. The Bird-voiced Treefrog depends on forested wetlands and cypress swamps, which are disappearing as more land is cleared. The Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad needs moist environments and spends most of its time under logs or leaf litter, but it struggles to survive when wetlands are drained or destroyed. While doing this research, I learned just how fragile these species really are and how closely their survival depends on healthy environments. Understanding their needs such as clean water, safe breeding spaces, and natural food sources helps us figure out how to protect them. This project made me realize that studying animals is not just about gathering facts. It is about seeing how everything in nature is connected. Protecting frogs means protecting the balance of their entire ecosystem, and that helped me understand why conservation work is so important.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Local Amphibian research- Eriel Johnson<\/strong> 1. American Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Bumpy, brown toads common across Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, worms, spiders, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Forests, gardens, and grassy areas near shallow water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations and feed larger predators.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete for space and water during breeding season.<br>2. Fowler\u2019s Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to American toads but with lighter skin and three warts<br>per dark spot.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Ants, beetles, and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Sandy or loose soils near rivers, fields, or forests.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help control insect pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to pesticide exposure.<br>3. Bullfrog<br>\u2022 What are they? The largest frog in North America, known for its deep \u201cjug-o-<br>rum\u201d call.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to southern Illinois but introduced elsewhere.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, fish, snakes, and even small birds.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Large, permanent ponds and slow-moving rivers.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Provide food for larger animals and control some pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Can overeat smaller native frogs and fish.<br>4. Green Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Greenish-brown frogs with a ridge running down each side of the back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, snails, and small fish.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Habitat: Streams, ponds, and lakes with vegetation.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Keep insect and snail populations balanced.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: May compete with other aquatic species for food.<br>5. Northern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Green or brown frogs with dark round spots across their back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and worms.<\/strong><br>\u2022 Habitat: Wet meadows, marshes, and grassy ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help reduce mosquitoes and flies.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and habitat loss.<br>6. Southern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to the northern leopard frog but found mostly in southern<br>Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and flooded fields.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Declines with wetland destruction.<br>7. Pickerel Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown frogs with two rows of rectangular spots on their backs.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and small crustaceans.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Clear, cool streams and wetlands.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Natural pest control and indicator of clean water.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Their skin toxins can harm some predators.<br>8. Wood Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown or tan frogs with a dark \u201cmask\u201d across the eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Native or invasive? Native, found in northern Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Beetles, flies, and worms.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests and temporary woodland pools.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Aid nutrient cycling and insect control.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to climate change and habitat loss.<br>9. Crawfish Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Large, spotted frogs that live in burrows made by crayfish.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but uncommon in Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands and prairies with crayfish burrows.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help manage insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Depend on specific burrowing habitats, easily disturbed.<br>10. Plains Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brownish-green frogs with broken dorsolateral folds.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to western Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small animals.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands, ponds, and slow streams.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Eat pests and serve as prey for larger wildlife.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive drought and pollution.<br>11. Gray Treefrog<br>\u2022 What are they? Small, tree-dwelling frogs that can change from gray to green.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Moths, crickets, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Wooded areas and backyards near water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect pests and signal healthy ecosystems.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete with other treefrogs for food and breeding space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">12. Spring Peeper<br>\u2022 What are they? Tiny frogs with an \u201cX\u201d on their back, known for their peeping calls in<br>spring.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Small insects and spiders.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests, wetlands, and ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Reduce insect numbers and indicate healthy wetlands.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and water changes.<br>13. Blanchard\u2019s Cricket Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Very small, warty frogs that hop quickly along pond edges.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but declining in some areas.<br>\u2022 Diet: Mosquitoes, gnats, and small insects.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and stream edges.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control mosquitoes and serve as prey for birds and fish.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Easily harmed by pollution and habitat destruction. &#8211; My CODES 221 report<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Before going onsite, all I needed was clarification so I can do my part with no confusing. Before going I just imagined us walking in a park. My plan, as discussed with the JJK is I will be working and researching about the species that is in that area. Not just that, I will also be designing the charts and flyer for the data me and my partner Aiden will gather. Honestly the only obstacle I would say is there is if im overloaded with work or may not understand what to do. My partners and I are excited especially since we had a good site visit and it went well and everyone knows what they are doing. Sometimes the barriers to building trust is not knowing the person, how the person act, and bad experiences from the past. I will keep in contact with my team and make sure we are on the same page and help each other out as needed. We went on the site and outside was nice but it is still in construction. We talked about the plans and how we could help out by researching certain things for the JJK.  <\/strong>&#8211; <strong>reflection 2<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Yes, I have completed a couple of on-site visits at JJK Fan, and each one was a really positive experience for me. During the meetings, we went over the plans for JJK and talked about what tasks they needed us to complete. At first, I felt nervous because I didn\u2019t want to miss any important details or end up doing something wrong. But as the conversations went on, I realized how important communication and confidence are in situations like that. I think my behavior influenced the interactions in a good way because I stayed focused and made sure to show that I was listening. Even when I needed clarification, I didn\u2019t let that keep me from paying attention to what was being explained. In the past, I sometimes struggled with situations where I didn\u2019t fully understand something someone said. Instead of asking questions, I would try to figure it out on my own, and most of the time it didn\u2019t work out the way it should have. This experience helped me understand the difference between simply listening and actually hearing what someone is saying. Hearing means paying attention, processing the information, and making sure the message is clear. I\u2019ve learned that speaking up when something is confusing doesn\u2019t make me look unprepared; it actually helps avoid mistakes and builds stronger communication. Working with JJK Fan has pushed me to grow in how I listen, communicate, and collaborate with others. I feel more comfortable asking questions when I need to, and I\u2019ve gotten better at staying engaged during discussions. Overall, the site visits taught me a lot about how to present myself, how to interact with people professionally, and how to make sure I understand what is expected of me. &#8211; reflection 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Goal&nbsp;<\/strong>3 (20%)<br>Based on (8A) : Uses clear organizational patterns and is skillful at presenting content cohesively.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>What will you do to learn the content\/ develop the skill?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What examples will you add to the portfolio to demonstrate your learning?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What characteristics of the chosen examples demonstrate you have met your goal?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>I will improve this skill by outlining my work, practicing clear transitions, and revising my writing and presentations so they are organized and easy to follow.<\/td><td>Data on animals(CODES 221 report)<br>reflection 2<br>reflection 3<br>reflection 4<br><\/td><td>Each piece uses clear introductions, smooth transitions, and well-structured paragraphs that build on each other.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">This is the data I recorded for the animals I researched, which gave me practice by outlining my work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Local Amphibian research- Eriel Johnson<\/strong> 1. American Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Bumpy, brown toads common across Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, worms, spiders, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Forests, gardens, and grassy areas near shallow water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations and feed larger predators.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete for space and water during breeding season.<br>2. Fowler\u2019s Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to American toads but with lighter skin and three warts<br>per dark spot.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Ants, beetles, and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Sandy or loose soils near rivers, fields, or forests.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help control insect pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to pesticide exposure.<br>3. Bullfrog<br>\u2022 What are they? The largest frog in North America, known for its deep \u201cjug-o-<br>rum\u201d call.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to southern Illinois but introduced elsewhere.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, fish, snakes, and even small birds.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Large, permanent ponds and slow-moving rivers.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Provide food for larger animals and control some pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Can overeat smaller native frogs and fish.<br>4. Green Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Greenish-brown frogs with a ridge running down each side of the back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, snails, and small fish.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Habitat: Streams, ponds, and lakes with vegetation.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Keep insect and snail populations balanced.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: May compete with other aquatic species for food.<br>5. Northern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Green or brown frogs with dark round spots across their back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and worms.<\/strong><br>\u2022 Habitat: Wet meadows, marshes, and grassy ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help reduce mosquitoes and flies.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and habitat loss.<br>6. Southern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to the northern leopard frog but found mostly in southern<br>Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and flooded fields.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Declines with wetland destruction.<br>7. Pickerel Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown frogs with two rows of rectangular spots on their backs.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and small crustaceans.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Clear, cool streams and wetlands.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Natural pest control and indicator of clean water.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Their skin toxins can harm some predators.<br>8. Wood Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown or tan frogs with a dark \u201cmask\u201d across the eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Native or invasive? Native, found in northern Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Beetles, flies, and worms.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests and temporary woodland pools.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Aid nutrient cycling and insect control.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to climate change and habitat loss.<br>9. Crawfish Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Large, spotted frogs that live in burrows made by crayfish.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but uncommon in Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands and prairies with crayfish burrows.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help manage insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Depend on specific burrowing habitats, easily disturbed.<br>10. Plains Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brownish-green frogs with broken dorsolateral folds.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to western Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small animals.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands, ponds, and slow streams.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Eat pests and serve as prey for larger wildlife.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive drought and pollution.<br>11. Gray Treefrog<br>\u2022 What are they? Small, tree-dwelling frogs that can change from gray to green.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Moths, crickets, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Wooded areas and backyards near water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect pests and signal healthy ecosystems.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete with other treefrogs for food and breeding space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">12. Spring Peeper<br>\u2022 What are they? Tiny frogs with an \u201cX\u201d on their back, known for their peeping calls in<br>spring.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Small insects and spiders.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests, wetlands, and ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Reduce insect numbers and indicate healthy wetlands.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and water changes.<br>13. Blanchard\u2019s Cricket Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Very small, warty frogs that hop quickly along pond edges.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but declining in some areas.<br>\u2022 Diet: Mosquitoes, gnats, and small insects.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and stream edges.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control mosquitoes and serve as prey for birds and fish.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Easily harmed by pollution and habitat destruction. &#8211; My CODES 221 report<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">I collected data on animals by researching the key things they need to survive and thrive in their natural habitats. First, I chose which animals I wanted to focus on, and then I went deeper into their habits, environments, and the challenges they face. I decided to focus on frogs in southern Illinois because they play an important role in the ecosystem, but many of them are experiencing serious declines. Some frog species in this region are considered threatened, meaning their populations are dropping and they could eventually disappear if their habitats keep getting damaged. This usually happens because of habitat loss, pollution, and environmental changes caused by human activity. Three of the most threatened frog species in southern Illinois are the Illinois Chorus Frog, the Bird-voiced Treefrog, and the Eastern Narrow mouthed Toad. The Illinois Chorus Frog lives in sandy prairies and relies on temporary ponds for breeding, but these areas are shrinking due to farming and land development. The Bird-voiced Treefrog depends on forested wetlands and cypress swamps, which are disappearing as more land is cleared. The Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad needs moist environments and spends most of its time under logs or leaf litter, but it struggles to survive when wetlands are drained or destroyed. While doing this research, I learned just how fragile these species really are and how closely their survival depends on healthy environments. Understanding their needs such as clean water, safe breeding spaces, and natural food sources helps us figure out how to protect them. This project made me realize that studying animals is not just about gathering facts. It is about seeing how everything in nature is connected. Protecting frogs means protecting the balance of their entire ecosystem, and that helped me understand why conservation work is so important. &#8211; reflection 4 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Before going onsite, all I needed was clarification so I can do my part with no confusing. Before going I just imagined us walking in a park. My plan, as discussed with the JJK is I will be working and researching about the species that is in that area. Not just that, I will also be designing the charts and flyer for the data me and my partner Aiden will gather. Honestly the only obstacle I would say is there is if im overloaded with work or may not understand what to do. My partners and I are excited especially since we had a good site visit and it went well and everyone knows what they are doing. Sometimes the barriers to building trust is not knowing the person, how the person act, and bad experiences from the past. I will keep in contact with my team and make sure we are on the same page and help each other out as needed. We went on the site and outside was nice but it is still in construction. We talked about the plans and how we could help out by researching certain things for the JJK.  <\/strong>&#8211; <strong>reflection 2<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Yes, I have completed a couple of on-site visits at JJK Fan, and each one was a really positive experience for me. During the meetings, we went over the plans for JJK and talked about what tasks they needed us to complete. At first, I felt nervous because I didn\u2019t want to miss any important details or end up doing something wrong. But as the conversations went on, I realized how important communication and confidence are in situations like that. I think my behavior influenced the interactions in a good way because I stayed focused and made sure to show that I was listening. Even when I needed clarification, I didn\u2019t let that keep me from paying attention to what was being explained. In the past, I sometimes struggled with situations where I didn\u2019t fully understand something someone said. Instead of asking questions, I would try to figure it out on my own, and most of the time it didn\u2019t work out the way it should have. This experience helped me understand the difference between simply listening and actually hearing what someone is saying. Hearing means paying attention, processing the information, and making sure the message is clear. I\u2019ve learned that speaking up when something is confusing doesn\u2019t make me look unprepared; it actually helps avoid mistakes and builds stronger communication. Working with JJK Fan has pushed me to grow in how I listen, communicate, and collaborate with others. I feel more comfortable asking questions when I need to, and I\u2019ve gotten better at staying engaged during discussions. Overall, the site visits taught me a lot about how to present myself, how to interact with people professionally, and how to make sure I understand what is expected of me. &#8211; reflection 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Goal&nbsp;<\/strong>4 (20%)<br>Based on (9b) : Identifies and evaluate multiple approaches for solving problems.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>What will you do to learn the content\/ develop the skill?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What examples will you add to the portfolio to demonstrate your learning?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What characteristics of the chosen examples demonstrate you have met your goal?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>I will practice analyzing problems by brainstorming several possible solutions instead of stopping at the first idea. <br>I will research how others have approached similar issues, compare different strategies, and consider their outcomes.\u00a0<\/td><td>reflection 4<br>CODES 221 report<br>implementation plan <br>reflection 3<br><br><\/td><td>explain why each approach could work, what limitations it might have, and which option is most effective based on evidence.\u00a0<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">I collected data on animals by researching the key things they need to survive and thrive in their natural habitats. First, I chose which animals I wanted to focus on, and then I went deeper into their habits, environments, and the challenges they face. I decided to focus on frogs in southern Illinois because they play an important role in the ecosystem, but many of them are experiencing serious declines. Some frog species in this region are considered threatened, meaning their populations are dropping and they could eventually disappear if their habitats keep getting damaged. This usually happens because of habitat loss, pollution, and environmental changes caused by human activity. Three of the most threatened frog species in southern Illinois are the Illinois Chorus Frog, the Bird-voiced Treefrog, and the Eastern Narrow mouthed Toad. The Illinois Chorus Frog lives in sandy prairies and relies on temporary ponds for breeding, but these areas are shrinking due to farming and land development. The Bird-voiced Treefrog depends on forested wetlands and cypress swamps, which are disappearing as more land is cleared. The Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad needs moist environments and spends most of its time under logs or leaf litter, but it struggles to survive when wetlands are drained or destroyed. While doing this research, I learned just how fragile these species really are and how closely their survival depends on healthy environments. Understanding their needs such as clean water, safe breeding spaces, and natural food sources helps us figure out how to protect them. This project made me realize that studying animals is not just about gathering facts. It is about seeing how everything in nature is connected. Protecting frogs means protecting the balance of their entire ecosystem, and that helped me understand why conservation work is so important. &#8211; reflection 4 <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Yes, I have completed a couple of on-site visits at JJK Fan, and each one was a really positive experience for me. During the meetings, we went over the plans for JJK and talked about what tasks they needed us to complete. At first, I felt nervous because I didn\u2019t want to miss any important details or end up doing something wrong. But as the conversations went on, I realized how important communication and confidence are in situations like that. I think my behavior influenced the interactions in a good way because I stayed focused and made sure to show that I was listening. Even when I needed clarification, I didn\u2019t let that keep me from paying attention to what was being explained. In the past, I sometimes struggled with situations where I didn\u2019t fully understand something someone said. Instead of asking questions, I would try to figure it out on my own, and most of the time it didn\u2019t work out the way it should have. This experience helped me understand the difference between simply listening and actually hearing what someone is saying. Hearing means paying attention, processing the information, and making sure the message is clear. I\u2019ve learned that speaking up when something is confusing doesn\u2019t make me look unprepared; it actually helps avoid mistakes and builds stronger communication. Working with JJK Fan has pushed me to grow in how I listen, communicate, and collaborate with others. I feel more comfortable asking questions when I need to, and I\u2019ve gotten better at staying engaged during discussions. Overall, the site visits taught me a lot about how to present myself, how to interact with people professionally, and how to make sure I understand what is expected of me. &#8211; reflection 3<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">This assignment demonstrates by me researching how the animals are affected by the environment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Local Amphibian research- Eriel Johnson<\/strong> 1. American Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Bumpy, brown toads common across Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, worms, spiders, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Forests, gardens, and grassy areas near shallow water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations and feed larger predators.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete for space and water during breeding season.<br>2. Fowler\u2019s Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to American toads but with lighter skin and three warts<br>per dark spot.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Ants, beetles, and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Sandy or loose soils near rivers, fields, or forests.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help control insect pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to pesticide exposure.<br>3. Bullfrog<br>\u2022 What are they? The largest frog in North America, known for its deep \u201cjug-o-<br>rum\u201d call.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to southern Illinois but introduced elsewhere.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, fish, snakes, and even small birds.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Large, permanent ponds and slow-moving rivers.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Provide food for larger animals and control some pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Can overeat smaller native frogs and fish.<br>4. Green Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Greenish-brown frogs with a ridge running down each side of the back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, snails, and small fish.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Habitat: Streams, ponds, and lakes with vegetation.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Keep insect and snail populations balanced.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: May compete with other aquatic species for food.<br>5. Northern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Green or brown frogs with dark round spots across their back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and worms.<\/strong><br>\u2022 Habitat: Wet meadows, marshes, and grassy ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help reduce mosquitoes and flies.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and habitat loss.<br>6. Southern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to the northern leopard frog but found mostly in southern<br>Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and flooded fields.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Declines with wetland destruction.<br>7. Pickerel Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown frogs with two rows of rectangular spots on their backs.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and small crustaceans.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Clear, cool streams and wetlands.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Natural pest control and indicator of clean water.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Their skin toxins can harm some predators.<br>8. Wood Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown or tan frogs with a dark \u201cmask\u201d across the eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Native or invasive? Native, found in northern Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Beetles, flies, and worms.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests and temporary woodland pools.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Aid nutrient cycling and insect control.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to climate change and habitat loss.<br>9. Crawfish Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Large, spotted frogs that live in burrows made by crayfish.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but uncommon in Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands and prairies with crayfish burrows.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help manage insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Depend on specific burrowing habitats, easily disturbed.<br>10. Plains Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brownish-green frogs with broken dorsolateral folds.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to western Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small animals.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands, ponds, and slow streams.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Eat pests and serve as prey for larger wildlife.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive drought and pollution.<br>11. Gray Treefrog<br>\u2022 What are they? Small, tree-dwelling frogs that can change from gray to green.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Moths, crickets, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Wooded areas and backyards near water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect pests and signal healthy ecosystems.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete with other treefrogs for food and breeding space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">12. Spring Peeper<br>\u2022 What are they? Tiny frogs with an \u201cX\u201d on their back, known for their peeping calls in<br>spring.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Small insects and spiders.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests, wetlands, and ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Reduce insect numbers and indicate healthy wetlands.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and water changes.<br>13. Blanchard\u2019s Cricket Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Very small, warty frogs that hop quickly along pond edges.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but declining in some areas.<br>\u2022 Diet: Mosquitoes, gnats, and small insects.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and stream edges.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control mosquitoes and serve as prey for birds and fish.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Easily harmed by pollution and habitat destruction. &#8211; My CODES 221 report<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Eriel &#8211; The outcome of my research will be good for the JJK to help them understand what environment will be safe and healthy for the animals and other species. By me studying in the area and what animals and creatures live there, I will have a better understanding of what the need is and how all species will get along in the environment. I need to know your needs and if the information I am giving you helpful or not. I can benefit from this because it shows me what more I need to do and how you can help me get it done.\u00a0Eriel: The data I will need to answer my question is ethnographies. I will observe the animals and do research on what environments are helpful to the animals. My last CODE class we collected data on ethnography and how much people liked east St. Louis parks. We went to two parks in east St. Louis and observed the parks and all that were in it. We did a group presentation on that ethnographic project on east St. Louis. By doing that ethnography in my other CODES class, I now have experience doing them and they also can benefit by the jjk an idea of what might be helpful to the environment for animals.\u00a0&#8211; Implementation plan<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Goal&nbsp;<\/strong>5 (20%)<br>Based on (11C) : &nbsp;Reads using an appropriate lens and can engage in a continuing dialogue within and beyond a discipline or a community of readers.<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>What will you do to learn the content\/ develop the skill?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What examples will you add to the portfolio to demonstrate your learning?<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>What characteristics of the chosen examples demonstrate you have met your goal?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>I will practice identifying the lens best suited for each reading and use it to guide my interpretation. <br>I will take notes that focus on key themes, perspectives, and questions. <\/td><td>reflection 2<br>reflection 3<br>implementation plan<br>CODES 221 report<\/td><td>show that I can read texts with a clear purpose and use the appropriate lens whether cultural, analytical, historical, scientific, or rhetorical to understand deeper meaning.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Eriel<\/strong>: The data I will need to answer my question is ethnographies. I will observe the animals and do research on what environments are helpful to the animals. My last CODE class we collected data on ethnography and how much people liked east St. Louis parks. We went to two parks in east St. Louis and observed the parks and all that were in it. We did a group presentation on that ethnographic project on east St. Louis. By doing that ethnography in my other CODES class, I now have experience doing them and they also can benefit by the jjk an idea of what might be helpful to the environment for animals.\u00a0<strong>Eriel<\/strong> &#8211; The outcome of my research will be good for the JJK to help them understand what environment will be safe and healthy for the animals and other species. By me studying in the area and what animals and creatures live there, I will have a better understanding of what the need is and how all species will get along in the environment. I need to know your needs and if the information I am giving you helpful or not. I can benefit from this because it shows me what more I need to do and how you can help me get it done.\u00a0 &#8211; implementation plan I showed that I can take notes that focus on key themes, perspectives, and questions by using my notes to answer the questions for this assignment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Before going onsite, all I needed was clarification so I can do my part with no confusing. Before going I just imagined us walking in a park. My plan, as discussed with the JJK is I will be working and researching about the species that is in that area. Not just that, I will also be designing the charts and flyer for the data me and my partner Aiden will gather. Honestly the only obstacle I would say is there is if im overloaded with work or may not understand what to do. My partners and I are excited especially since we had a good site visit and it went well and everyone knows what they are doing. Sometimes the barriers to building trust is not knowing the person, how the person act, and bad experiences from the past. I will keep in contact with my team and make sure we are on the same page and help each other out as needed. We went on the site and outside was nice but it is still in construction. We talked about the plans and how we could help out by researching certain things for the JJK.  <\/strong>&#8211; <strong>reflection 2<\/strong>. I showed that I can take notes that focus on key themes, perspectives, and questions by using my notes to answer the questions for this reflection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">Yes, I have completed a couple of on-site visits at JJK Fan, and each one was a really positive experience for me. During the meetings, we went over the plans for JJK and talked about what tasks they needed us to complete. At first, I felt nervous because I didn\u2019t want to miss any important details or end up doing something wrong. But as the conversations went on, I realized how important communication and confidence are in situations like that. I think my behavior influenced the interactions in a good way because I stayed focused and made sure to show that I was listening. Even when I needed clarification, I didn\u2019t let that keep me from paying attention to what was being explained. In the past, I sometimes struggled with situations where I didn\u2019t fully understand something someone said. Instead of asking questions, I would try to figure it out on my own, and most of the time it didn\u2019t work out the way it should have. This experience helped me understand the difference between simply listening and actually hearing what someone is saying. Hearing means paying attention, processing the information, and making sure the message is clear. I\u2019ve learned that speaking up when something is confusing doesn\u2019t make me look unprepared; it actually helps avoid mistakes and builds stronger communication. Working with JJK Fan has pushed me to grow in how I listen, communicate, and collaborate with others. I feel more comfortable asking questions when I need to, and I\u2019ve gotten better at staying engaged during discussions. Overall, the site visits taught me a lot about how to present myself, how to interact with people professionally, and how to make sure I understand what is expected of me. &#8211; reflection 3  I showed that I can take notes that focus on key themes, perspectives, and questions by using my notes to answer the questions for this reflection, putting into practice all I have learned. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">APPENDIX B<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\"><strong>Local Amphibian research- Eriel Johnson<\/strong> 1. American Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Bumpy, brown toads common across Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, worms, spiders, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Forests, gardens, and grassy areas near shallow water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations and feed larger predators.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete for space and water during breeding season.<br>2. Fowler\u2019s Toad<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to American toads but with lighter skin and three warts<br>per dark spot.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Ants, beetles, and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Sandy or loose soils near rivers, fields, or forests.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help control insect pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to pesticide exposure.<br>3. Bullfrog<br>\u2022 What are they? The largest frog in North America, known for its deep \u201cjug-o-<br>rum\u201d call.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to southern Illinois but introduced elsewhere.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, fish, snakes, and even small birds.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Large, permanent ponds and slow-moving rivers.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Provide food for larger animals and control some pests.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Can overeat smaller native frogs and fish.<br>4. Green Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Greenish-brown frogs with a ridge running down each side of the back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, snails, and small fish.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Habitat: Streams, ponds, and lakes with vegetation.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Keep insect and snail populations balanced.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: May compete with other aquatic species for food.<br>5. Northern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Green or brown frogs with dark round spots across their back.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br><strong>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and worms.<\/strong><br>\u2022 Habitat: Wet meadows, marshes, and grassy ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help reduce mosquitoes and flies.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and habitat loss.<br>6. Southern Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Similar to the northern leopard frog but found mostly in southern<br>Illinois.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and flooded fields.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Declines with wetland destruction.<br>7. Pickerel Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown frogs with two rows of rectangular spots on their backs.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects, spiders, and small crustaceans.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Clear, cool streams and wetlands.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Natural pest control and indicator of clean water.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Their skin toxins can harm some predators.<br>8. Wood Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brown or tan frogs with a dark \u201cmask\u201d across the eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">\u2022 Native or invasive? Native, found in northern Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Beetles, flies, and worms.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests and temporary woodland pools.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Aid nutrient cycling and insect control.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to climate change and habitat loss.<br>9. Crawfish Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Large, spotted frogs that live in burrows made by crayfish.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but uncommon in Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and small invertebrates.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands and prairies with crayfish burrows.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Help manage insect populations.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Depend on specific burrowing habitats, easily disturbed.<br>10. Plains Leopard Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Brownish-green frogs with broken dorsolateral folds.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to western Illinois.<br>\u2022 Diet: Insects and other small animals.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Grasslands, ponds, and slow streams.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Eat pests and serve as prey for larger wildlife.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive drought and pollution.<br>11. Gray Treefrog<br>\u2022 What are they? Small, tree-dwelling frogs that can change from gray to green.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Moths, crickets, and beetles.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Wooded areas and backyards near water.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control insect pests and signal healthy ecosystems.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete with other treefrogs for food and breeding space.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-small-font-size\">12. Spring Peeper<br>\u2022 What are they? Tiny frogs with an \u201cX\u201d on their back, known for their peeping calls in<br>spring.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.<br>\u2022 Diet: Small insects and spiders.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Moist forests, wetlands, and ponds.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Reduce insect numbers and indicate healthy wetlands.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Sensitive to pollution and water changes.<br>13. Blanchard\u2019s Cricket Frog<br>\u2022 What are they? Very small, warty frogs that hop quickly along pond edges.<br>\u2022 Native or invasive? Native but declining in some areas.<br>\u2022 Diet: Mosquitoes, gnats, and small insects.<br>\u2022 Habitat: Shallow ponds, marshes, and stream edges.<br>\u2022 Benefits: Control mosquitoes and serve as prey for birds and fish.<br>\u2022 Drawbacks: Easily harmed by pollution and habitat destruction. &#8211; My CODES 221 report<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your Goal Grade A Work B Work C Work -Misses one class or less, or completes make-up work for excused absences-Annotates all readings thoroughly-Makes substantive comments in discussions-Completes&nbsp;all&nbsp;assignments&nbsp;on time&nbsp;(or has an approved extension request)-Work demonstrates intellectual engagement, care, effort, and growth in response to feedback-Collaborates substantially, contributes to vision, works equally with peers -Misses two classes or less, or completes make-up work for excused absences-Annotates readings&nbsp;-Often participates in discussion-Completes all major assignments&nbsp;on time&nbsp;(or has an approved extension request)-Completes most SAs&nbsp;on time-Work demonstrates care, effort and growth in response to feedback-Collaborates equally, completes required work -Misses three classes or less, or completes make-up work for excused absences-Completes most readings-Sometimes adds to discussion-Completes&nbsp;all&nbsp;major assignments on time (or has an approved extension request)-Completes at least four SAs-Meets minimal expectations on assignments; shows limited growth in response to feedback-Completes required collaborative work First-Week Introduction This semester in codes is exciting and I\u2019m looking forward to better things this semester. Midterm Introduction This midterm semester I have built relationship with my CODES groups. Recently, my group and I went to visit a site and this was very interesting to me. As we go toward the end of the semester, I look forward to experiencing more in the end. Final Introduction Now it is the end of the semester, it has been a journey. This semester has been different because I got to learn more about groups and experiencing that very thing we discussed the first weeks of codes 221 class. Course Goals&nbsp; Choose five goals from the&nbsp;CODES Student Learning Outcomes&nbsp;that you\u2019d like to work toward. Choose goals that are&nbsp;relevant&nbsp;to the scope of this course, select artifacts\/examples based on&nbsp;activities assigned for this course, and explain characteristics in a way that illustrates&nbsp;how your artifacts\/examples demonstrate your progress&nbsp;toward the goal. Goal 1 (20%)Based on : (3c):Applies ethical concepts to a question and considers their full implications. What will you do to learn the content\/ develop the skill? What examples will you add to the portfolio to demonstrate your learning? What characteristics of the chosen examples demonstrate you have met your goal? I will consider the questions on my assignment and answer them with clarity. Implementation planreflection 2reflection 3reflection 4 Explanation that is understandableAnswers with clarity Before going onsite, all I needed was clarification so I can do my part with no confusing. Before going I just imagined us walking in a park. My plan, as discussed with the JJK is I will be working and researching about the species that is in that area. Not just that, I will also be designing the charts and flyer for the data me and my partner Aiden will gather. Honestly the only obstacle I would say is there is if im overloaded with work or may not understand what to do. My partners and I are excited especially since we had a good site visit and it went well and everyone knows what they are doing. Sometimes the barriers to building trust is not knowing the person, how the person act, and bad experiences from the past. I will keep in contact with my team and make sure we are on the same page and help each other out as needed. We went on the site and outside was nice but it is still in construction. We talked about the plans and how we could help out by researching certain things for the JJK. &#8211; reflection 2. This evidence I have chose, my reflection because it shows that I applied the concept and answered the questions fully. I clarified my answers and showed my understanding. I mentioned how in our meeting we discussed our needs and implications for the future. Eriel &#8211; The outcome of my research will be good for the JJK to help them understand what environment will be safe and healthy for the animals and other species. By me studying in the area and what animals and creatures live there, I will have a better understanding of what the need is and how all species will get along in the environment. I need to know your needs and if the information I am giving you helpful or not. I can benefit from this because it shows me what more I need to do and how you can help me get it done.&nbsp;Eriel: The data I will need to answer my question is ethnographies. I will observe the animals and do research on what environments are helpful to the animals. My last CODE class we collected data on ethnography and how much people liked east St. Louis parks. We went to two parks in east St. Louis and observed the parks and all that were in it. We did a group presentation on that ethnographic project on east St. Louis. By doing that ethnography in my other CODES class, I now have experience doing them and they also can benefit by the jjk an idea of what might be helpful to the environment for animals.&nbsp;&#8211; Implementation plan This is another evidence for this goal. I chose this evidence because I also clarified and answered the questions presented to me. I also discussed my plan for my part and the future. Yes, I have completed a couple of on-site visits at JJK Fan, and each one was a really positive experience for me. During the meetings, we went over the plans for JJK and talked about what tasks they needed us to complete. At first, I felt nervous because I didn\u2019t want to miss any important details or end up doing something wrong. But as the conversations went on, I realized how important communication and confidence are in situations like that. I think my behavior influenced the interactions in a good way because I stayed focused and made sure to show that I was listening. Even when I needed clarification, I didn\u2019t let that keep me from paying attention to what was being explained. In the past, I sometimes struggled with situations where I didn\u2019t fully understand something someone said. Instead of asking questions, I would try to figure it out on my own, and most of the time it didn\u2019t work out the way it should have. This experience helped me understand the difference between simply listening and actually hearing what someone is saying. Hearing means paying attention, processing the information, and making sure the message is clear. I\u2019ve learned that speaking up when something is confusing doesn\u2019t make me look unprepared; it actually helps avoid mistakes and builds stronger communication. Working with JJK Fan has pushed me to grow in how I listen, communicate, and collaborate with others. I feel more comfortable asking questions when I need to, and I\u2019ve gotten better at staying engaged during discussions. Overall, the site visits taught me a lot about how to present myself, how to interact with people professionally, and how to make sure I understand what is expected of me. &#8211; reflection 3 I collected data on animals by researching the key things they need to survive and thrive in their natural habitats. First, I chose which animals I wanted to focus on, and then I went deeper into their habits, environments, and the challenges they face. I decided to focus on frogs in southern Illinois because they play an important role in the ecosystem, but many of them are experiencing serious declines. Some frog species in this region are considered threatened, meaning their populations are dropping and they could eventually disappear if their habitats keep getting damaged. This usually happens because of habitat loss, pollution, and environmental changes caused by human activity. Three of the most threatened frog species in southern Illinois are the Illinois Chorus Frog, the Bird-voiced Treefrog, and the Eastern Narrow mouthed Toad. The Illinois Chorus Frog lives in sandy prairies and relies on temporary ponds for breeding, but these areas are shrinking due to farming and land development. The Bird-voiced Treefrog depends on forested wetlands and cypress swamps, which are disappearing as more land is cleared. The Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad needs moist environments and spends most of its time under logs or leaf litter, but it struggles to survive when wetlands are drained or destroyed. While doing this research, I learned just how fragile these species really are and how closely their survival depends on healthy environments. Understanding their needs such as clean water, safe breeding spaces, and natural food sources helps us figure out how to protect them. This project made me realize that studying animals is not just about gathering facts. It is about seeing how everything in nature is connected. Protecting frogs means protecting the balance of their entire ecosystem, and that helped me understand why conservation work is so important. &#8211; reflection 4 Goal 2 (20%)Based on (4b): Uses deep knowledge of global systems to develop and advocate for informed, appropriate action to solve complex problems. What will you do to learn the content\/ develop the skill? What examples will you add to the portfolio to demonstrate your learning? What characteristics of the chosen examples demonstrate you have met your goal? I will actively study how global social, environmental, and economic systems interact. I will use course readings, research credible sources, and analyze real-world case studies. reflection 4Data on animals(CODES 221 report)reflection 2reflection 3 Clarification of the questions I collected data on animals by researching the key things they need to survive and thrive in their natural habitats. First, I chose which animals I wanted to focus on, and then I went deeper into their habits, environments, and the challenges they face. I decided to focus on frogs in southern Illinois because they play an important role in the ecosystem, but many of them are experiencing serious declines. Some frog species in this region are considered threatened, meaning their populations are dropping and they could eventually disappear if their habitats keep getting damaged. This usually happens because of habitat loss, pollution, and environmental changes caused by human activity. Three of the most threatened frog species in southern Illinois are the Illinois Chorus Frog, the Bird-voiced Treefrog, and the Eastern Narrow mouthed Toad. The Illinois Chorus Frog lives in sandy prairies and relies on temporary ponds for breeding, but these areas are shrinking due to farming and land development. The Bird-voiced Treefrog depends on forested wetlands and cypress swamps, which are disappearing as more land is cleared. The Eastern Narrow-mouthed Toad needs moist environments and spends most of its time under logs or leaf litter, but it struggles to survive when wetlands are drained or destroyed. While doing this research, I learned just how fragile these species really are and how closely their survival depends on healthy environments. Understanding their needs such as clean water, safe breeding spaces, and natural food sources helps us figure out how to protect them. This project made me realize that studying animals is not just about gathering facts. It is about seeing how everything in nature is connected. Protecting frogs means protecting the balance of their entire ecosystem, and that helped me understand why conservation work is so important. Local Amphibian research- Eriel Johnson 1. American Toad\u2022 What are they? Bumpy, brown toads common across Illinois.\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.\u2022 Diet: Insects, worms, spiders, and beetles.\u2022 Habitat: Forests, gardens, and grassy areas near shallow water.\u2022 Benefits: Control insect populations and feed larger predators.\u2022 Drawbacks: Compete for space and water during breeding season.2. Fowler\u2019s Toad\u2022 What are they? Similar to American toads but with lighter skin and three wartsper dark spot.\u2022 Native or invasive? Native.\u2022 Diet: Ants, beetles, and small invertebrates.\u2022 Habitat: Sandy or loose soils near rivers, fields, or forests.\u2022 Benefits: Help control insect pests.\u2022 Drawbacks: Vulnerable to pesticide exposure.3. Bullfrog\u2022 What are they? The largest frog in North America, known for its deep \u201cjug-o-rum\u201d call.\u2022 Native or invasive? Native to southern Illinois but introduced elsewhere.\u2022 Diet: Insects, fish, snakes, and even small birds.\u2022 Habitat: Large, permanent ponds and slow-moving rivers.\u2022 Benefits: Provide food for larger animals and control some pests.\u2022 Drawbacks: Can overeat smaller native&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":203,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-235","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/235","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/203"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=235"}],"version-history":[{"count":22,"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/235\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":342,"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/235\/revisions\/342"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/eportfolio.siue.edu\/eriel-johnson\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=235"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}