Genetic Building Blocks

Journal Article | June 2004

The “Central Dogma” of genetics states that one gene, located in a DNA molecule, is ultimately translated into one protein. As important as this idea is, many teachers shy away from teaching the actual mechanism of gene…

Learning Genetics with Paper Pets

Journal Article | February 2006

By the end of the eighth grade, students are expected to have a basic understanding of the mechanisms of basic genetic inheritance (NRC 1996). However, these concepts can be difficult to teach. To make these concepts…

The Alien Lab: A Study in Genetics

Journal Article | September 2002

Integrate language arts, mathematics, and art with this creature-building activity. Students reinforce their understanding of basic principles of heredity by creating alien creatures with specific traits.

Phenylketonuria Genetic Screening Simulation

Journal Article | September 2012

This article presents a hands-on, simulated screen for the inherited disease phenylketonuria. Designed as an interactive demonstration of inherited traits, this simulated screen connects real-life genetic testing with…

Experimental Population Genetics in the Introductory Genetics Laboratory Using Drosophila as a Model Organism

Journal Article | June 2009

Hypotheses of population genetics are derived and tested by students in the introductory genetics laboratory classroom as they explore the effects of biotic variables (physical traits of fruit flies) and abiotic…

Science Sampler - Eggheads: Pioneers of genetics

Journal Article | February 2006

Today, scientific discoveries can feel anonymous to students. We take many breakthrough discoveries for granted. This timeline activity was created to renew the notion that individual actions make a difference in the…

The Green Room: Genetically Modified Crops

Journal Article | March 2013

This column focuses on making your teaching more environmentally friendly. This month’s issue discusses the pros and cons of genetically modified crops.