Unit Summary
![Picture](/uploads/2/7/5/5/27550287/2303019.jpg?250)
This unit covers the basics of molecular genetics, from the structure and composition of DNA to gene expression and cellular function. This basic knowledge is then applied to explore two single-gene human diseases. Finally, a connection is made between mutations and genetic variability. Extensive use has been made of online resources as a means of integrating technology into the unit.
The contents of this unit are divided into several pages to facilitate ease of use. The Home Page provides details on the content standards and learning objectives. The Assessments page details the various assessments used throughout the lesson to ensure successful completion of the unit. Additional links are provided under the Unit Resources page for further reading and review. An overview of the entire unit can be found on the Unit Plan Template page. The remaining pages are divided into 3 lessons as summarized below. Each lesson can be accessed through the navigation menu at the top of the page.
Lesson 1: This lesson provides essential background knowledge and an overview of protein synthesis and DNA replication through a PowerPoint presentation. Guided notes and a self quiz are provided. The emphasis is on the big picture rather than the details of the processes.
Lesson 2: This lesson guides students to explore these processes further and to make connections between mutations and changes in cellular function. The heart of this lesson is a webercise that guides students through independent online learning activities. Two human diseases are used as a basis for understanding how mutations in DNA can result in cellular dysfunction. A project included in the webercise serves as one of the two summative assessments in this unit.
Lesson 3: This lesson explores the sources that contribute to genetic variation. Errors in DNA replication, the process of meiosis, and environmental factors are covered as sources of genetic variability and biodiversity. Graphic organizers are used in this lesson to classify and clarify the main ideas.
The contents of this unit are divided into several pages to facilitate ease of use. The Home Page provides details on the content standards and learning objectives. The Assessments page details the various assessments used throughout the lesson to ensure successful completion of the unit. Additional links are provided under the Unit Resources page for further reading and review. An overview of the entire unit can be found on the Unit Plan Template page. The remaining pages are divided into 3 lessons as summarized below. Each lesson can be accessed through the navigation menu at the top of the page.
Lesson 1: This lesson provides essential background knowledge and an overview of protein synthesis and DNA replication through a PowerPoint presentation. Guided notes and a self quiz are provided. The emphasis is on the big picture rather than the details of the processes.
Lesson 2: This lesson guides students to explore these processes further and to make connections between mutations and changes in cellular function. The heart of this lesson is a webercise that guides students through independent online learning activities. Two human diseases are used as a basis for understanding how mutations in DNA can result in cellular dysfunction. A project included in the webercise serves as one of the two summative assessments in this unit.
Lesson 3: This lesson explores the sources that contribute to genetic variation. Errors in DNA replication, the process of meiosis, and environmental factors are covered as sources of genetic variability and biodiversity. Graphic organizers are used in this lesson to classify and clarify the main ideas.