Lesson plan 7: Clonal selection theory
Resources
Calculators, graph paper or computer access.
Lesson content
The body has a vast array of lymphocytes, each with a single type of
membrane receptor specific for one antigen. When a receptor is activated b y
the binding of an antigen, the lymphocyte repeatedly divides , resulting in a
clonal population of lymphocytes.
Introduction (5 min)
Learning outcome
Today we are learning what happens to lymphocytes following activation by
an antigen.
Success criterion
We will know we are successful when we can describe clonal selection theory
and its importance to the immune response.
Activity 1 (5 min)
Think, pair, share.
What do we mean by the term ‘specific’ in biology? Use examples in your
answer.
Take answers from the class. Discuss the answer in relation to specific
responses to infection.
Revision of the words ‘clone’ and ‘population’
Ask the class the question: What do you think we mean by a clonal
population of lymphocytes? Give students a few minutes to discuss within
their groups and prepare a group answer.
Activity 2 (10 min)
Watch the following video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUSDvSknIgI&feature=related
IMMUNOLOGY AND PUBLIC HEALTH (H, HUMAN BIOLOGY)
© Learning and Teaching Scotland 2011
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Class discussion on the video – students should then be given time to make
their own notes.
Activity 3 (30 min)
Exponential growth activity
Ask students what they would rather do – work for a flat rate of £100 per
week, or start earning 1p but the salary doubles each week. Give students a
minute or two to think about it then take a vote.
If students choose the first option they stand to make £5200 per annum.
If they choose the second option they stand to make £ 8192 after only 13
weeks. After 52 weeks it becomes an inconceivable amount of money.
Ask students to draw and complete a table showing exponential growth. The
results of the table can then be used to draw a line graph showing the typical
shape of an exponential curve. Students can draw the graph by hand or use
spreadsheet software.
Plenary (5 min)
Refer to the learning outcome and success criterion – has the success
criterion been achieved?
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IMMUNOLOGY AND PUBLIC HEALTH (H, HUMAN BIOLOGY)
© Learning and Teaching Scotland 2011