Seth Buckwalter
Lesson Plan
Construction of a Phylogenetic Tree for Modern Humans
Details
Resources
This lesson uses the mtDNA sequences from the DNA Extraction, amplification, and sequencing
lab. It also utilizes the Dolan website to help compare sequences.
(http://www.bioserver.org/bioserver/index1.html)
Purpose/Overview
This is a follow-up lesson after we have received our sequences from the sequencing lab. The
goal is for students to learn some applications for these sequences that have been done. It is
also to apply their knowledge of phylogenetics and increase their understanding of how
phylogenetic relationships are determined.
PA Science and Technology Standards
3.3B Describe, explain, analyze the chemical and structural basis of living organisms
3.3D Explain and analyze the mechanisms of the theory of evolution.
Instructional Objectives
1. Students will learn how to use a Dolan website to align and compare DNA sequences.
2. Students will learn how to use differences in DNA sequences to construct phylogenetic trees.
3. Students will apply their understanding of phylogenetic trees to the concept of the migration
of humans from a common ancestor in Africa.
Materials and Equipment
Computers and internet
mtDNA sequences
Instructional Activities
Introduction-The teacher will review how we obtained mtDNA sequences and give a brief
overview of what we will be using them for today.
Activity-Students will work in groups of 2 in a computer lab and follow the instructions on the
“Construction of a Phylogenetic Tree of Modern Humans” handout
Wrap-up: The teacher will lead the students in a discussion of the difficulties they had and why
they think the encountered those difficulties.
Assessment of the Instructional Objectives
During class the teaching will assess the involvement of each individual in their group.
The “Construction of a Phylogenetic Tree of Modern Humans” handout must be turned in by
each group of students and graded by the teacher.
In the end of the unit test, an essay question will be included asking the students to explain why
mtDNA can be used to develop phylogenetic trees.