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Week 9 - Genetic Material Part 2

What did I learn this week?

This week we continued our learning of genetic material but exploring the role that mutation plays in it. We talked about 3 different types of genetic mutation, insertion, deletion, and substitution. We learned that substitution is the replacement of a DNA base with a different base. We learned that insertion mutations add one or more DNA bases and deletion mutations remove one or more bases which can impact the mRNA, and consequently, the amino acid that's translated. We learned this through an activity where we made a superhero and examined the differences between the DNA, more closely discussing the effects that mutations can have on different organisms. Mutations can be beneficial, harmful, or even have a neutral impact on organisms like the majority of mutations. 

Are you able to relate what you learned to what you already knew? 

Prior to this week, I was already familiar with the process of creating DNA and mRNA but it was cool to use the simulations to actually see the outcomes of these mutations. It helps to solidify the knowledge so much better and is a great visual tool for visual learners. 

How can you apply what you learned to your future teaching? 

This week we were able to use simulations provided by Dr. You to explore how mutation works. I can remember times when my science teachers would use resources from the web to help us with our learning and at times as different study tools for students to use. I think these are important to have in your back pocket as learners differentiate in how they take in information and what does and doesn't work for them. I think ensuring that you have alternate and extra things available for students, would be helpful for extra time or to deepen students' knowledge. 



Comments

  1. Madeline KilianOctober 23, 2024 at 2:21 PM

    Hi Maddy! I agree that using the simulations were a nice way to demonstrate the central dogma process. They would be a great resource for our future classrooms as, like you said, they can be great for visual learners!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Taylor TownsendOctober 24, 2024 at 6:50 AM

    Hi Maddy! I agree that the simulations were useful to see the effects mutations have. I think your point about using resources from the internet is important because students learn in different ways and need a variety of modes of learning. Great post!

    ReplyDelete
  3. Isabel ShermanOctober 24, 2024 at 12:54 PM

    Hey Maddy! I love how detailed your recall of the lab was! I agree that the simulations help to solidify knowledge for students. Are there any other simulations or activities you can think of that can show mutations?

    ReplyDelete

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