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The mystery of Joe's Father |
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Introduction Learners Curriculum Links Process Evaluation Conclusion Credits Student Page |
This lesson was developed as part of the requirements for a course toward a diploma in ICT through Christchurch College of Education. In this lesson, students gain knowledge of some genetic terminology and use it to make genetic profiles of single gene controlled traits. Their knowledge is then used to solve a mystery - who could be the father of a character named Joe. Learners
This lesson is designed for High School science students of about year 9 or 10 (N.Z.). That is it suits Level 5 of "Science in the New Zealand Curriculum", "investigate patterns in the inheritance of genetically controlled characteristics and explain the importance of variation within a changing environment, e.g., simple monohybrid genetics, human reproduction, genetically controlled human characteristics such as eye colour, asexual and sexual reproduction in plants;" Students need not have any prior knowledge or skills regarding genetics to complete this Quest. It could be used as an introduction to genetics, or as a follow-up activity. Curriculum Links Students will learn some genetic vocabulary, how to distinguish between genotypes and phenotypes and how to analyse an individual's phenotype to ascertain their genotype. The Quest also involves problem solving when they are asked to compare genotypes to ascertain the likely father of the Joe character. Students are also asked to cooperate in sharing knowledge as they work toward their goal. The
Process
The Process as outlined in the student page requires students to be in groups of four but it could be done individually or in smaller groups. An able class accustomed to use of the internet should be able to complete the task in one period, but less able students may require two. The teacher should have knowledge of genetics or enough analytical skill to work out the answer themselves as it is not mentioned anywhere in this information for fear of helping the students to avoid work. It would be advisable for any teacher using this Quest to work through it first to find the answer and identify any problems specific to their own students' abilities before they find themselves under pressure in front of a class. Should anyone need any help, please contact the email address below.Resources Needed It is most desirable for each student to have access to an internet-connected computer with Internet explorer or another browser, but would be possible to have one computer between two or more students (but this will slow the process). It would be possible to do this whole WebQuest without internet access so long as texts or other materials were available which covered the definitions and human traits required adequately. The instructions suggest that students could download two word documents to enter the phenotypes and genotypes on a grid. Allowing this would speed up the process. It would be best to ensure that there is a printer in working order and adequate supplies of paper for the class. Evaluation The following grid can be used to assess students' work. The exact level of accuracy and adequacy can be determined by the teacher in relation to their expectations of their class.
Achieved
with Merit:
All three criteria achieved, plus the correct candidate for Joe's father is identified. Achieved with Excellence: All three criteria achieved, plus the correct candidate for Joe's father is identified, plus a clear written explanation for the conclusion is given in a report for Joe. Conclusion Hopefully this Quest will engage students in an activity which will stimulate their interest in simple genetics and inspire them to acquire knowledge and skills in the subject. Credits & References The animated graphics used in the heading were retrieved from Microsoft Clip art Online. All other illustrations were produced by the author, Rick Wood. The mouseover java code for the graphics which change (Joe on the homepage and Yasmina on the genetics profile page) was adapted from that used by Flamingtext.com. The WebQuest format was based on a template from The WebQuest Page at San Diego State University The textbook referred to above is: Stannard P., Williamson K & Hook P. (1999) Science World 10 for the New Zealand Curriculum. Pp. 261 – 279. Auckland N.Z. MacMillan Science in the New Zealand Curriculum. Making sense of the living world level 5 |
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| Genetrix4u Site | Author: R. Wood contact email. Last updated 30/10/05 Return to top |