6th Grade Science

Ms Grothman

Ms Smith

Mr Stremikis

6th Grade Science - Unit 3 - Traits & Reproduction

Inside virtually every cell in every organism on Earth, genes provide instructions for making proteins that govern all the functions of an organism’s body. An organism inherits its genes from its parent or parents, but different combinations of genes can lead to striking variation even among closely related organisms. Understanding the role of genes and the process of inheritance has allowed researchers to explain variation in life on Earth, breed plants and animals with new traits, and develop cures for devastating diseases. In the Traits and Reproduction unit, students take on the role of student genetic researchers, working with the fictional bioengineering firm, Bay Medical Company. Bay Medical Company is attempting to breed spiders with the type of silk that can be used for medical applications (e.g., to create artificial tendons). The student genetic researchers are faced with the challenge of explaining how the silk flexibility traits of closely related spiders can vary, which serves as the anchor phenomenon for the unit. To explain this mystery, students create physical models, read articles, and observe genetics in action, using the Traits and Reproduction Simulation. This powerful and engaging digital tool allows students to observe and breed spiders, making connections between what happens inside cells and how this affects the traits of an organism. Through their research, students learn about the role proteins, genes, and sexual reproduction play in trait variation. They are able to apply what they have learned about spiders to a human context.

Google Classroom Links

Grothman (Mon, Thurs) (a2onfqg)

Grothman (Tues, Fri) (55c6qko)

Smith (Mon, Thurs) (czkoll2)

Smith (Tues., Fri) (vfozehx)

Stremikis (Mon, Thurs) (jfkhda3)

Stremikis (Tues, Fri) (clv4ddr)