Genetics
Genetics includes the study of heredity, or how traits are passed from parents to offspring. The topics of genetics vary and are constantly changing as we learn more about the genome and how we are influenced by our genes.
Mendelian Genetics
Practice Sets
Simple Genetics Practice – using mendelian genetics and punnett squares
Genetic Crosses with two traits – basic crosses, uses Punnet squares
Genetic Crosses with two traits II – basic crossses, uses Punnett squares
Dihybrid Crosses in Guinea Pigs (pdf) – step through on how to do a 4×4 punnett square
Codominance & Incomplete Dominance – basic crosses involving codominance
Simulations
Heredity Simulation - popsicle sticks
Penny Genetics - flip coins to compare punnett ratios to actual ratios
Virtual Genetics Lab - Guinnea Pigs (online)
NGSS-LW Link
Inheritance and Variation of Traits help students in pursuing an answer to the question: “How are the characteristics from one generation related to the previous generation?” High school students demonstrate understanding of the relationship of DNA and chromosomes in the processes of cellular division that pass traits from one generation to the next. Students can determine why individuals of the same species vary in how they look, function, and behave. Students can develop conceptual models for the role of DNA in the unity of life on Earth and use statistical models to explain the importance of variation within populations for the survival and evolution of species. Ethical issues related to genetic modification of organisms and the nature of science can be described. Students can explain the mechanisms of genetic inheritance and describe the environmental and genetic causes of gene mutation and the alteration of gene expression. Crosscutting concepts of structure and function, patterns, and cause and effect developed in this topic help students to generalize understanding of inheritance of traits to other applications in science.
Human Genetics
Genetics Practice:
Multiple Alleles | Blood Types
Possible Simulations & Activities
Chromosome Study - cut and paste chromosomes to create a karyotype
Online Karyotype Analysis - match virtual chromosomes
Variations on a Human Face - flip coins to determine the traits
Pipe Cleaner Babies - use pipe cleaners as a simulation
Genetic Engineering
Who Ate The Cheese – simulate gel electrophoresis to solve a crime
Genetic Science Ethics – survey as a group ethical questions involved genetics (cloning, gene therapy..)
Genetic Engineering Concept Map
Biotechnology Web Lesson – students explore genetic science learning center (https://learn.genetics.utah.edu/) and discover how clones are made, and how DNA is extracted and sequenced
Genetic Science Learning Center – explore website with animations and tutorials, answer questions
DNA Fingerprinting – another simulation, this one from PBS, that walks you through the steps of creating a DNA Fingerprint
Cloning – Click and Clone at GSLC where you can read about how clones are made and clone your own virtual mouse
DNA Technology Lecture
DNA Technology Lab