Curated OER
Artificial Selection
The second lesson in the series begins with a starter activity discussing wild versus domesticated animals. Then, scholars play a card game, with optional variations, to emphasize artificial selection. Next, they attend a field trip to a...
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Color Variation over Time in Rock Pocket Mouse Populations
A species-specific look at natural selection, the resource herein examines how adaptations have helped the population of rock pocket mice survive in a changing landscape. To begin, middle or high schoolers watch a 10.5 minute video,...
Curated OER
Trait Variations for Survival
Young learners examine how different traits could give one organism an advantage over another. In groups, they view two different organisms in different environments. To end the lesson, they complete a Venn Diagram on the two organisms...
Curated OER
The Meaning of Genetic Variation
Students investigate variation in the beta globin gene by identifying base changes that do and do not alter function, and by using several Internet-based resources to consider the significance in different environments of the base...
Curated OER
Mendellian Genetics
Young scholars describe the inheritance patterns other than simple dominance. They are taught how Mendel's principles apply to all organisms. Students review the use of Punnett Squares. They are taught the principles of probability...
Curated OER
Bird Buffet
Fifth graders study traits of different bird beaks. In this bird lesson, 5th graders explore the function and usefulness of different inherited traits of birds.
Curated OER
Gene Action/Mutation Worksheet
Young scholars define the following terms: mutation, mutagen and give examples of how they work. They also define and illustrate a point mutation. Students define and illustrate a frame shift mutation and name two types of frame shift...
Curated OER
Exploring Human Traits
Students explore human behavior by participating in a class science game. In this human characteristics lesson, students identify different human traits that are passed down by each generation and the purpose each of them have. Students...
Curated OER
Peanut Butter Broccoli
Fifth graders explore food production by viewing DNA presentations. In this genetic engineering lesson, 5th graders discuss the foods they typically eat at home and how many common foods are engineered in a way that can produce a bigger...
Curated OER
Genes: The Building Blocks of Life
Students examine various topics on genetics. Students explore the Internet to gather information on genetic testing, genetically engineered food, forensics, DNA and cloning. They research and determine the best way to fund each of the...
Curated OER
Reproduction and Heredity
Sixth graders investigate how traits are passed from parents to their offspring. They list things they have in common with family members, read key vocabulary terms, create a poster of shared physical and personality traits, and watch...
Curated OER
Biology Honors Final Project
Tenth graders work on a project about cellular biology and genetics. In this biology lesson, 10th graders research about the assigned human body system and genetic disorders that affect it. They create a multimedia presentation and...