Genetics Syllabus – Ms. Alagala
MANUAL ARTS HIGH SCHOOL
Email: aba9798@lausd.net
Phone # 323-846-7300 ext 3220
Room# 220
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This class includes an introduction to Genetics, Mitosis and Meiosis, Mendelian Genetics, Extensions of
Mendelian Ratios, Sex Determination and Sex Chromosomes, Chromosome Mutations: Variation in
Chromosome Number and Arrangement, Extranuclear Inheritance, DNA Structure and Analysis, DNA
Replication and Recombination, DNA Organization in Chromosomes, Recombinant DNA Technology and
Gene Cloning, The Genetic Code and Transcription, Translation and Proteins, Gene Mutation and DNA,
Developmental Genetics of Model Organisms, Cancer and Regulation of the Cell Cycle, Genomics,
Proteomics, and Bioinformatics, Genome Dynamics: Transposons, Immunogenetics, and
Eukaryotic Viruses, Genomic Analysis--Dissection of Gene Function, Applications and Ethics of Genetic
Engineering and Biotechnology and population genetics. The class is intended for an audience interested
in learning the basics of genetics. Genetics meets University of California “d” requirement for laboratory
science.
Objectives
By doing this course you will be able to:
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Relate the structure and function of the DNA molecule to its functional role in encoding genetic
material.
Apply the principles of inheritance as formulated by Mendel.
Apply the principles of extensions to Mendelian inheritance, including multiple allelism, lethal
alleles, gene interactions, and sex-linked transmission.
Analyze genetic data using statistical procedures.
Describe normal chromosome number, structure, and behavior in human cells, and understand the
cause and effect of alterations in chromosome number and/or structure.
Understand how to identify and classify mutations in DNA.
Describe the basic aspects of the flow of genetic information from DNA to proteins.
Explain and make deductions about gene regulation with emphasis on the lac operon model.
Deduce the relationship between genetic, physical, and cytogenetic maps.
Illustrate how information generated by genome sequencing projects can be used to discover
practical knowledge about gene expression and relationships between species.
Apply the Hardy-Weinberg Law in analyzing population genetics for gene frequency, sex linkage,
equilibrium, and heterozygote frequency.
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GENETICS TENTATIVE COARSE OUTLINE
Week
1
1/2
Topic
Chapter 1: Introduction to
Genetics
Chapter 2: Meiosis
Lab/Activity
-Chapter Questions
-Genetic Terminology List
-Diagnostic test
- Start Off Lab: Learning about genetically modified plants (runs 8 weeks)
-Chapter Questions
-Illustration: Stages of Meiosis
Genetics Syllabus – Ms. Alagala
2
Chapter 3: Mendelian Genetics
3
Chapter 4: Extension of Mendelian
Genetics
4
Chapter 7: Sex Determination and
Sex Chromosome
5
Chapter 8: Chromosome
Mutations: Variation in
Chromosome Number and
Arrangement
6
Chapter 13: Recombinant DNA
Technology and Gene Cloning
7
Chapter 20: Cancer and Regulation
of the Cell Cycle
8
Review for FINAL
-Lab: Ascaris identification of meiosis stages under a microscope
-Quiz: Meiosis
-Chapter Questions
-Unit 2 Lab 2: Closer Look at Genes and Probability
-Activity1: Applying the Law of Chance to Genetics
-Activity 2: Modeling a Genetic Cross to Demonstrate the Law of
Dominance
- Activity3: Modeling a Genetic Cross to Demonstrate the Law of
Incomplete
Dominance
- Chapter Test
-Chapter Questions
-Human Genetics and Inheritance
-Lab: Determining Blood Type
-Unit 3 Lab 4 Heredity of Humans
-Activity 1: Determine Frequency of Human Traits
-Activity 2: Calculating the frequency of Human Traits in a Population
-Lab: What Do you Taste?
-Chapter Test
-Chapter Questions
- Project: A Family Portrait (Pedigree)
- Activity: Analyzing Karyotypes
- Project: Inquiry Investigation Learning to become a genetic detective
-Extra Spicy Problems # 30 and 31
-Chapter test
-Chapter Questions
-Activity: Constructing and Analyzing Karyotypes
-Project: Case Studies in Genetics
-Extra-Spicy Problems # 24, 29, 31
-Chapter Test
-Chapter Questions
-Lab: Do onions have DNA?
-Activity 1: Analyzing Genetic Origins through DNA fingerprinting
-Activity 2: Analyzing Genetic Origins through DNA sequencing
-Activity 3: Understanding the Human Genome
-Lab: Learning about genetically modified plants
-Chapter Test
-Chapter Questions
-Activity 4: Diagnosing Genetic Diseases
-Activity 5: Predicting Genetic Disease
-Unit 4 Lab 7: Culminating Lab
-Chapter Test
-Practice Problems
- Sample Test
-Cumulative Exam
This sheet outlines the requirements necessary for successful completion of the course. A successful
completion is a grade of CSS or better. (Required for High School Graduation)
IMPORTANT POLICIES: Graded work WILL be maintained in a composition book. Since Physiology is a
laboratory class, if the student behaves unsatisfactory, they will not be permitted to do labs till a parent
conference is had. There is a zero tolerance on plagiarized/copied work.
Make up work policy: Excellent attendance is recommended to succeed in this course. If student has an
excused absence (#1 or #2) make up work will be given to the student in the form of an alternate
assignment. The work must be submitted in a timely manner (2 days after work is given). NO late work
accepted.
Genetics Syllabus – Ms. Alagala
Late enrollees: Students who enroll late and do not come in with a grade are responsible for all work
previous to their enrollment. The students must ask and obtain the work from teacher and appropriate
time will be allotted for the completion of work. If student chooses not to ask and do the work, they will
only get half credit, 50% which is an F on the assignments.
Material needed:
1. Composition book (REQUIRED)
4. Ruler
2. Color pencils
5. Pens/Pencils
3. Glue sticks
6. Pencil Sharpener
There are glue sticks, color pencils, rulers, and pencil sharpener in class that is shared equipment
provided by the teacher.
Student Academic Responsibilities and Expectations.
Students will
1. be engaged by scientific questions.
2. explore ideas through direct, hands- on investigations that emphasize observation, solve
problems, formulate and test explanations, and create and discuss explanations for what they
have observed.
3. analyze and interpret data they have collected, synthesize their ideas, and build concepts and
new models with the support of their teacher.
4. apply their new understanding to new settings including real life situations to elaborate on their
new knowledge.
5. with their teacher, review and assess what they have learned, and evaluate their understanding.
Student Behavior Expectations
Students will
1. come to class prepared (writing utensils/ paper, notebooks)
2. be in their seat and ready to start work before the tardy bell rings.
3. have the habits, and attitudes to ensure respect.
4. follow the school’s uniform policy. (no caps or beanies are to be used in class)
5. follow the district and school’s policy on the use of electronic devices in class. ( no device use)
6. keep classes clean by discarding gum, food and beverages before entering class.
7. do any personal grooming before or after class.
GRADING CRITERIA: (Tentative) Grading Policies
Categories and Category Weight
Classwork:
20%
Homework:
10%
Projects:
15%
Tests/Quizzes: 25%
Midterm/Final: 15%
Labs:
15%
Grades:
90%-100% A
80%-89%  B
65%-79%  C
0%-64%  F
You earn your grades. Grade sheet will be given every other Tuesday and has to be turned in with parent’s
signature the next day. Or grade will be emailed and a parent signature in the notebook acknowledges for looking at
the grades on line and be accountable and knowledgeable about child’s grade.
WORK HABITS AND COOPERATION: According to Los Angeles Unified School District Criteria.
NOTE:
Genetics Syllabus – Ms. Alagala
1. Plagiarism in any form is unethical and will not be tolerated. Consequences of plagiarism may
result in a failing grade for the course.
2. Any student in this course who has a disability that may prevent them from fully
demonstrating their abilities should contact the instructor personally as soon as possible to
discuss any accommodations needed to ensure maximal participation and facilitate equal
educational opportunity.
3. Students are responsible for conducting themselves with honor and integrity in fulfilling
course requirements. Disciplinary proceedings may be initiated by the teacher against a
student accused of scholastic dishonesty. Penalties include a grade of "0" or "F" on the
particular assignment. Scholastic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, cheating on a test,
plagiarism, and collusion (conspiracy).
4. If you do not understand a topic please ask questions to improve your comprehension. Make
sure to ask questions during class or see me after class if you are having problems with the
class work. Don’t wait until last minute to get help! During discussions remember to respect
the opinions and questions of other students.
ACADEMIC SUPPORT:
b. Use only your fingers on the keys
c. Keep hands off the monitor
a. Tutoring available: Room#220
unless it is a touchscreen.
Time: 7:00 am – 8:00 am. Or
d. Keep your hands clean.
After school by appointment
e. Do not touch anyone else’s
Computer Usage in Classroom:
computer.
1. No food, drink, or magnets of any kind is around
7. If anything isn’t working properly let
the computers
teacher know.
2. Respect each other and the equipment.
8. Do not personalize computers!
a. Gentle use of keyboard, mouse, and head
a. Do not change monitor
phones.
backgrounds or screen savers.
3. Do not install or download any software from
b. Do not add, move, change or
the internet or any other source.
delete desktop icons.
4. Listen to teacher during class and Do Not
http://www.bluevalleyk12.org/education
distract or disturb others with “non-work”
/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=42321
activities!
5. NO off-task internet usage!
a. Access the internet only with teacher
approval.
b. Computer usage is only for educational
approved/supplied sites for information,
image retrieval & interactive learning.
6. Print with permission ONLY!
a. Make sure you only print 1 copy.
Genetics Syllabus – Ms. Alagala
PARENT AND STUDENT STATEMENT: I have understood Ms. Alagala’s Physiology Course Syllabus and agree to
all the information typed above. I and parent acknowledge the statement by signing below.
Student Name:____________________________________________ Period #______
Email Address:____________________________________________
Student Signature: _______________________________ Date: ________
HOW PARENTS CAN HELP:
• Provide your child space to study and make sure lie/she completes assignments on time.
• Encourage your child to think about educational and career goals and discuss how specific coursework will
assist in achieving them.
• Become involved in various educational activities and other programs to learn about the instructional and
curricular programs at school.
• Recognize your child’s academic achievements and accomplishments in school activities.
• Communicate with your child’s teachers, counselor, and other school staff on a regular basis. Attend parentteacher conferences and obtain provided information on school activities. Call Number (323) 846-7301
• Contact Parent Resource Number at (800) 933-8133.
I have understood Ms. Alagala’s syllabus and expectation for my child to pass this class. It is my (parent or
guardian) responsibility to make space for the child to complete homework and contact teacher whenever
necessary.
Parent Name: _______________________________________________
Email Address:________________________________________________
Parent Signature:_____________________________________________Date:______________
Phone Number:
(1) __________________________________________2)_____________________________________
READ ALL ABOUT ME!
1. What name do you prefer that you be called? ________________
2. What are your hobbies or things that you enjoy doing?
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. What is your favorite subject and why? _____________________________________________________
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4. What is your least favorite subject and why?
Genetics Syllabus – Ms. Alagala
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5. What are you nervous about for this school year?
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6. What do you want your teacher to know about you?
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7. Do you have difficulty doing homework? Explain.
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8. When you grow up, what would like to be?
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9. What is your academic goal in this class?
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10. How are you going to achieve this academic goal?
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11. What are your few favorite things!
a. Color: ___________________________ f. Animal: __________________________
b. Food: ____________________________ g. Book: ____________________________
c. Sport: ____________________________ h. Flower: ___________________________
d. Things to do in School: __________________________________________________________________
e. Things to do at home: ___________________________________________________________________
12. Anything else, you want Ms. Alagala to know about you?
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13. Draw and name something inside the box that represents you.