UNIT- Genetics & Evolution
Introduction
In this unit, students will examine the inheritance of characteristics
from one generation to the next, and the role of DNA and genes in
heredity. They will make connections between mutation and genetic
diversity, and gain an understanding of the theory of evolution by
natural selection. Students will examine the influence and application
of gene technology in 21st century contexts.
KEY SKILLS
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
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Represent patterns of inheritance of simple dominant/recessive
characteristics through generations of a family
Interpret inheritance of genetic traits in family pedigrees and assign
genotpyes/phenotypes
Use models and/or diagrams to represent the relationship between DNA,
genes and chromosomes
Extract and examine DNA (? Perform gel electrophoresis)
Investigate natural selection in a specific population and identify selection
pressures driving evolution
Compare/contrast examples of natural selection with artificial selection, such
as selective breeding for desired characteristics in cattle, agriculture or dogs.
Interpret evidence for evolution, such as the fossil record, chemical and
anatomical similarities and geographical distribution of species
KEY KNOWLEDGE
At the end of this unit, students will be able to:
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Describe the structure of DNA and its role as a blueprint for heritable traits.
Recognize that genetic information is passed from parents to offspring via
meiosis
Predict ratios of offspring genotypes and phenotypes in crosses involving
dominant/recessive gene pairs or genes that are sex-linked
Describe mutations as changes to DNA and/or chromosomes and outline
factors contributing to mutations
Explain how variation, isolation and environmental selection pressures lead
to evolution by natural selection
Relate genetic characteristics to survival and reproductive rates of individual
organisms
Outline examples of gene technology applied in medicine and/or
biotechnology, such as genetic screening of inherited disorders, GMOs and
TGOs.
KEY TERMS
The Key Terms that students will become familiar with the definition and
spelling of during this unit are:
species
meiosis
offspring
gene
mutation
Sex-linked
inheritance
variation
Selection pressures
allele
biodiversity
Biological fitness
trait
evolution
dominant
characteristic
Natural selection
recessive
DNA
Genotype
Artificial selection
Homologous
phenotype
Selective breeding
chromosomes
Genetic engineering
Genetic screening
Genetically modified
organisms
genome
pedigree
Transgenic organisms
UNIT RESOURCES AVAILABLE
Scootle:
http://www.scootle.edu.au/ec/search?accContentId=ACSSU185&learni
ngarea=%22Science%22&userlevel=(10)
http://www.scootle.edu.au/ec/search?accContentId=ACSSU184&learni
ngarea=%22Science%22&userlevel=(10)
Heinemann, Science Links 4 Textbook
POSSIBLE ASSESSMENT TASKS INCLUDE
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Pedigree analysis assignment
Gel electrophoresis practical
Gene technology research assignment
Single-gene disorders research assignment
DNA extraction practical
DNA/chromosome model