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Genetics Lesson Plan
Unlocking the Secrets of DNA: A Journey into Genetics
Subject
Biology
Grade
9
Methodology
Direct Instruction
Duration (minutes)
55
Overview
Introduction to Genetics 10 min
Understanding DNA Structure 15 min
Genetic Inheritance 15 min
Critical Thinking Activity 10 min
Summary and Q&A 5 min
Standards
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-10.1, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-10.2, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-10.3
Background Knowledge
This lesson will delve into the fundamental concepts of genetics, focusing on DNA structure and function, as well as the mechanisms of genetic inheritance. Students will gain an understanding of how traits are passed from one generation to the next and will engage in activities designed to enhance critical thinking skills.
Skills
Critical Thinking
Objectives
Understand the basic principles of genetics
Learn about the structure and function of DNA
Explore how genetic traits are inherited
Develop critical thinking skills through genetics-based activities
Materials
Excerpt: Unlocking the Secrets of You: An Intro to Genetics
Excerpt: The Ethics of Genetic Engineering
Assessment: Understanding DNA Structure
Assessment: Understanding DNA Structure
Video: DNA Structure and Replication: Crash Course Biology #10
Assessment: Genetic Inheritance
Card: Genetic Traits and Punnett Squares Activities
Table: Genetic Inheritance Rule Table
Article: Genetic engineering of animals: ethical issues, including welfare concerns
Card: High School Biology Question Cards
Lesson Activities
Introduction to Genetics (10 Min)
Begin the lesson with an engaging hook by asking students a provocative question: 'What makes you, you?' Share a brief story about how scientists discovered DNA and its importance. Use a real-world problem, such as genetic diseases, to capture interest. Introduce key terms: genetics, DNA, genes, chromosomes. Use a Summary Excerpt to explain each term and provide real-life examples. Ask students to think about traits they share with their family members and jot them down.
Understanding DNA Structure (15 Min)
Present new material on the structure of DNA. Use a Video to show the double helix structure and explain the components: nucleotides, base pairs (adenine, thymine, cytosine, guanine). Provide a Worksheet with diagrams of DNA for students to label. Conduct an Interactive Demonstration using a physical model of DNA to show how the base pairs connect. Use a Think-Pair-Share activity where students discuss why the structure of DNA is important for its function.
Genetic Inheritance (15 Min)
Explain how genetic traits are inherited using a Rule Table to show dominant and recessive traits. Use Task Cards with different genetic scenarios for students to solve in pairs. Introduce Punnett squares and demonstrate how to use them to predict genetic outcomes. Provide a second Worksheet where students complete Punnett squares for various genetic crosses. Use a Peer Teaching approach where students explain their solutions to each other.
Critical Thinking Activity (10 Min)
Conduct a Silent Debate where students write down their thoughts on ethical issues in genetics, such as genetic modification. Divide the class into small groups for a Structured Academic Controversy, where they discuss the pros and cons of genetic engineering. Use a Context Excerpt providing background information on genetic engineering to guide the discussion. Facilitate a Gallery Walk where students display their group's conclusions and walk around to see others' work.
Summary and Q&A (5 Min)
Summarize the key points of the lesson. Use a Jeopardy game to review concepts learned. Allow students to ask any remaining questions. Provide a Quick Write activity where students reflect on what they found most interesting or challenging about the lesson. Collect the Quick Writes for assessment.
