Cracking the Code: DNA Detectives Unravel Life's Family Tree
by Michael Angelo De La Cruz
In this engaging lesson, students will delve into the fascinating world of phylogenetics, using the DNA sequences and genetic information of their selected organisms to construct an automated phylogenetic tree. Through this hands-on activity, they will discover that evolutionary relationships are not solely determined by physical characteristics but are deeply rooted in the intricate patterns of genetic code. By analyzing the DNA sequences, students will unravel the hidden stories encoded within the genomes, revealing the intricate web of shared ancestry and divergence among different species. They will gain a profound understanding of how even the slightest variations in genetic information can shape the evolutionary trajectories of organisms, leading to the vast diversity we observe in the natural world.
Lesson Plan Link/URL
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1TX3kwz0wQtLjbn62wAhDUsiDSqo15MVM/edit?u…Related Content
Grades:
9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade
This lesson is the second lesson of a two-part series where students investigate concepts of biomimicry and apply them to the real world with issues like resource scarcity. In this lesson, students
Grades:
9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade
In this lesson, students will learn about desert plant and animal adaptations and the concept of biomimicry. Students will discuss examples of biomimicry in nature and in the real world and will
Grades:
9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade
The lesson is adapted from resources created by the Green Drone AZ Project. This is module 1 of 4 featuring focused activities to address real-world environmental challenges within Arizona communities