Genetics Fall 2009 Genetics Symposium
SC.11.04.01.01
Analyzes the relationship between chromosomes, genes, and traits and the roles they play in heredity ( CMCS 3.10a
) ( CAS 8.2.2.a,b )
Objective:
Research a genetic disease and present this genetic disease as an expert in a genetics symposium.
Introduction:
You have become one of the world’s leading experts on a specific genetic disease. You have four days to prepare for a symposium, a meeting of experts on genetic diseases, to present your disease of. To prepare yourself for the symposium you have to:
 choose and research a particular genetic disease and be able to answer all of the questions outlined on your research guide, turn in your research outline.
 create a visual aid – either poster or power point with pictures and explanations about your disease
 present your disease at the symposium and participate in all discussions at the symposium
Suggested list of genetic diseases (you may choose something off the list if appropriate):
Sickle Cell Anemia
Hemophilia
Marfan’s Syndrome
PKU - Phenylketonuria
Cystic Fibrosis
Tay Sachs Syndrome
Muscular Dystrophy
Huntington’s Disease
Albinism
Fragile X Syndrome
Achondroplasia
Porphyria
Wilson’s disease
Treacher- Collins Syndrome
Progeria
Proteus Syndrome

Research outline Name:
1. What is the name of your disease and does it have any alternate names?
2. What chromosome has the gene that is responsible for this disorder? What happens specifically
– point mutation or deletion or insertion? Find specific information on the exact location of the disease gene or even a chromosome map.
3. What is the inheritance pattern of the disorder: sex-linked or autosomal? Is the gene recessive or dominant?
3. How is this disorder diagnosed: what are the symptoms the patient exhibits and how is the disorder treated?
4. What is the prognosis and outlook for the patient with this disorder? Are there any limits on activity? Are patients dying within a certain timeframe or is their life expectancy shorter than normal?
5. Are there any famous people with this disorder or who have family with this disorder?
6. Is there an organization that people can contact for more information about this disorder?
7. Does this disease affect any particular group of humans, i.e. is it more found in men or women, does it affect certain races or nationalities? How many people in the world have this disorder?
8. Can this disorder be prevented? Can genetic counseling help?
9. Make sure to list at least three sources that you used to find your information i. ii.

iii.
Rubric
– Disease Symposium
Name: ____________________________
Learner Target
1. Research notes are turned in on the outline form provided, minimum of three quality sources
2. Student prepares a detailed visual aid to accompany symposium presentation.
(poster/overhead/PowerPoint)
Advanced
4. Student has a good understanding about the genetic details of his or her assigned disorder
5. Student has a good understanding of the impacts on the lives of affected individuals
6. The presentation was given as scheduled, well organized, complete and maintained the interest of the audience.
7. The student participated actively in the symposium by displaying appropriate behavior during presentations of peers
Total Score:
Proficient Incomplete