Abstract

The goal of this unit is to teach students the basic principles of genetics using Mendel's experiments. Students will be required to study Mendel's work and then perform similar breeding experiments (virtual experiments) using an internet web site.

Invitation

The goal of this unit is to study the history of genetics as wen as the basic principles of genetics through Greg Mendel's experiments. Students will study Mendel's experiments using both a textbook and a web site. Using punnett squares, students will predict the offspring of the pea plants. Students will then use the web site to check their work.

Situation

This unit will take place in both the classroom and computer lab. It will take approximately 1-2 weeks to complete.

Tasks

Students will begin by reading the textbook section on Gregor Mendel's experiments. Students will then use the internet site to read about his experiments. Students will learn about and use punnett squares to predict the outcomes of the pea plants' offspring. Students will then check their predictions using the web sites.

Interaction

Students will work independently while studying Mendel's work. Students will then pair up to do punnett squares and check their results using the web site.

Assessment

Students will take a written assessment on the basic principles of genetics. Using the characteristics of pea plants, students will predict the offspring of two plants using punnett squares.

Students will be evaluated on what they learned about Mendel by making a video. The video will consist of an interview with Gregor Mendel discussing his experiments. Students will be required to write the script, plan for props, scenery, costumes, etc. Students will use a digital video camera to tape the interview.


Tools

Addison-Wesley Living Things textbook computer with internet access web site www.sonic.net/- nbs/projects/anthro201 paper and pencil

Standards

Standard 3: Life Science
Benchmark 2: Recognize and understand the role of reproduction and heredity
for all living things.

2. Explore how heredity information contained in the genes of each cell is passed from one generation to the next.

Standard 7: History and Nature of Science Benchmark 2: Research contributions to science throughout history.

2. Replicate historic experiments to understand principles of science.