Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Genetics: Introduction

Objectives

Duration: 15 - 20 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to introduce students to the concept of genetics, providing a solid foundation for subsequent topics. This stage is crucial for the development of practical skills, as it allows students to understand the fundamentals of genetics, which is essential for both maker activities and application in the job market, where knowledge of genetics is often required in areas such as biotechnology and health sciences.

Main Objectives

1. Understand what genetics is and what it studies.

2. Differentiate genotype from phenotype.

3. Differentiate diploid and haploid cells.

Side Objectives

1. Understand what chromosomes and genes are.

Introduction

Duration: (15 - 20 minutes)

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to introduce students to the concept of genetics, providing a solid foundation for subsequent topics. This stage is crucial for the development of practical skills, as it allows students to understand the fundamentals of genetics, which is essential for both maker activities and application in the job market, where knowledge of genetics is often required in areas such as biotechnology and health sciences.

Contextualization

Genetics is the science that studies how biological traits are passed down from generation to generation. From eye color to predisposition to certain diseases, genetics plays a fundamental role in understanding who we are. Through genetics, we can understand not only family inheritance but also how we can use this information to prevent diseases and develop new therapies. Imagine how fascinating it would be to discover that you share genetic traits with your ancestors and how this can influence your health and behavior.

Curiosities and Market Connection

Curiosity: Did you know that about 99.9% of human DNA is identical in all people, and only 0.1% is responsible for the differences between us? Market Connection: Genetics is at the forefront of many innovations in the job market. In biotechnology, for example, genetic editing techniques like CRISPR are used to modify the genes of plants and animals, as well as potentially correct human mutations. In healthcare, genetic tests are performed to detect predispositions to diseases and personalize treatments, opening new job opportunities in diagnostic laboratories and pharmaceutical companies.

Initial Activity

Provocative Question: "Who here has ever wondered why we have different characteristics, like eye color, hair, and even special abilities?" Short Video: Present a 3-minute video about the discovery of the DNA structure, highlighting how this discovery revolutionized modern biology and opened new frontiers for genetic science.

Development

Duration: 50 - 55 minutes

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to deepen students' knowledge of the fundamental concepts of genetics through practical and reflective activities. This practical and interactive approach facilitates understanding and memorization of concepts while developing relevant skills for the job market, such as teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

Covered Topics

1. Concept of genetics
2. Genotype and phenotype
3. Diploid and haploid cells
4. Chromosomes and genes

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on how genetic traits can influence their daily lives and future careers. For example, ask how knowledge of genetics may be useful for a doctor, a biologist, or a biotechnology engineer. Encourage them to think about how genetics is present in various areas of the job market and technological innovation.

Mini Challenge

Construction of a DNA Model

Students will build a physical model of a DNA molecule using simple materials like toothpicks, colored gummies, and adhesive tape. This practical activity will help students visualize and understand the structure and function of DNA.

Instructions

1. Divide the class into groups of 4-5 students.
2. Distribute the materials: toothpicks, colored gummies (representing the nitrogenous bases adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine), adhesive tape, and string.
3. Explain that each color of gummy will represent a specific nitrogenous base.
4. Ask the students to assemble pairs of complementary bases (adenine with thymine and cytosine with guanine) using the toothpicks.
5. Instruct them to connect the base pairs with the toothpicks to create a double helical structure, representing the DNA molecule.
6. Guide the students in securing the base pairs with adhesive tape so that the structure is firm.
7. Conclude the activity with a brief presentation from each group, explaining the structure built and the importance of DNA in heredity.

Objective: Visualize the structure of DNA and understand its importance in the transmission of hereditary traits.

Duration: 30 - 35 minutes

Evaluation Exercises

1. Explain the difference between genotype and phenotype with everyday examples.
2. Describe the differences between diploid and haploid cells and provide examples of each type.
3. Define what chromosomes and genes are and their importance in genetics.

Conclusion

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage of the lesson plan is to consolidate students' learning by connecting theory with practice and highlighting the applicability of the knowledge acquired. This stage is crucial for cementing fundamental concepts, promoting critical reflection, and preparing students to apply genetic knowledge in real-world contexts, both in daily life and the job market.

Discussion

Promote an open discussion with students, encouraging them to share their reflections on the lesson. Ask how they see the application of genetics concepts in their daily lives and future careers. Request examples of how knowledge of genetics can be utilized in different areas of the job market, such as medicine, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. Stimulate debate on the impact of genetic discoveries on society and technological innovation. Encourage students to discuss the challenges faced during the construction of the DNA model and how they solved the problems encountered.

Summary

Summarize the main content presented in the lesson, emphasizing what genetics is, the difference between genotype and phenotype, and the distinctions between diploid and haploid cells. Remind the importance of chromosomes and genes in the transmission of hereditary traits. Recap the practical activity of building the DNA model and how it helped visualize the structure and function of DNA.

Closing

Explain how the lesson connected theory with practice through hands-on activities and reflective discussions. Highlight the relevance of genetic knowledge for the job market and everyday life. Conclude by emphasizing the importance of understanding genetics to prevent diseases, develop new therapies, and promote technological innovations. Thank the active participation of students and open the floor for final questions.