During the second trip to the Natural History Museum, we took a behind the scenes tour. My behind the tour was in the FossiLab. Scott and Abby, our tour guides, taught us a lot about fossils and how they show evolution. We were able to see some of the fossils they were presently removing from the rock. They also showed us some of the tools such as the airscribe that they use to remove the rock around the bone. After the tour, we were given an assignment to make a powerpoint on the tour and present it as a group to the class. This presentation helped improve my group interaction and communication skills.      After the tour, my group met together to create the powerpoint. My group had a hard time focusing on the task. There were many distractions in the room such as boyfriends, facebook, and music. We would answer one question, and then, someone would get distracted. I had to constantly get my group to refocus. I would patiently wait while they finished what they were doing, and then, I would gently ask the a question about the project or hint that we needed to stay focused. Then, my group members would focus back on the task and work on the project. I was able to be patient with my group members and not create a conflict by yelling at them.

This project also improved my communication skills. The next day in class, we had to present our powerpoint. I had to stand up in front of the class and share with them my experience. When it was my turn to speak, I took a deep breathe and began to speak. I projected my voice loud enough for everyone to hear and began explaining the airscribe to the class. I spoke slowly and clearly so that everyone could understand. At the end of the presentation, people began asking questions. I was able to answer several questions and get my points across clearly. This presentation helped me to communicate my ideas to the class.      The FossiLab tour was interesting, and the group assignment helped me build on my group interaction and communication skills. I was able to avoid conflicts with my group members by being patient and gentle. I was also able to explain clearly my section of the powerpoint. It is important to learn how to communicate and work with others because in the real world you never know who you may be teamed up with. These skills will help me a lot in the present and the future.

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