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:
7th Grade, 8th Grade, 9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade
Students will apply principles of design, engineering, and mathematics to create a physical or digital labyrinth inspired by the myth of Theseus. This project integrates STEM concepts with literature
Grades:
9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade
In this lesson students evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of conventional, petroleum-based plastics, bioplastics, and their different varieties. The lesson is driven by class/group research
Grades:
8th Grade, 9th Grade, 10th Grade, 11th Grade, 12th Grade
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