Description
Students examine the genetics of a population and consider how allelic frequencies can provide evidence about the evolution of species. Students model a population using cards to represent individual alleles, then collect phenotypic data from a population of Wisconsin Fast Plants®. Using direct counting and the Hardy-Weinberg equation, students determine the frequencies of the 2 alleles. Then students design and conduct an experiment to investigate population genetics further. Kit includes enough materials for 1 group of students.
Time Requirements
The Pre-Lab takes approximately 30 minutes of preparation, the Guided Investigation takes approximately 60 minutes of preparation, and the Inquiry Investigation takes approximately 30 minutes of preparation.
The Pre-Lab takes approximately 45 minutes. The Guided Investigation takes approximately 60 minutes for Activity A and 30 minutes on each of 2 days 1 week apart for Activity B. The time required for the Inquiry Investigation will vary based on students’ plans.
Digital Resources
Includes 1-year access to digital resources that support instruction. Digital resources may include a teacher manual and student guide, pre-lab activities and setup videos, simulations, and post-lab analysis and assessments.
Prerequisite Knowledge and Skills
Students should be familiar with Mendelian patterns of inheritance and use of basic algebraic equations.
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