Elementary Science Methods I

  This week in lab we checked on our fast plants and determined what phase of their life cycle they are in. We then reviewed and learned more about the central dogma, genetics, and genetic mutations. I learned that there are three types of genetic mutations: insertion, deletion, and substitutions. We explored these types of mutations through a super hero activity. Furthermore, I found it interesting to use the stimulations to visualize the process of DNA transcription into mRNA and how it then develops into proteins. It was especially interesting to incorporate genetic mutations and watch how that affected the process.  I will be able to apply much of what we learned to my future teaching. Due to our class activities, I can visualize how mutations affect the DNA transcription and translation processes, therefore I can better explain these concepts to my future students. The super hero activity especially supported my understanding, and is an activity I would use in my classroo...

  This week, we learned a lot about DNA and genetics. We began by learning that DNA is considered the blueprint of life and is located in the nucleus of the cell. I found it interesting that although DNA is about 5 feet long, it is wrapped so tightly as chromosomes that it can fit inside the nucleus. We demonstrated this by creating our own DNA chromosome with candy. We also learned that DNA is essential because it contains the instructions for creating protein, a necessary structure for growing and maintaining bodies.  Furthermore, we then moved on to learn about genetics. Offspring inherit their genetics from their parents, who can have either the dominant or recessive trait. We modeled this by determining the genetics of our own baby based on our parenter's and our own genetics.  I can apply much of what I learned this week in my future teaching. It is important to revisit these topics so that I have a stronger understanding to teach my future students about DNA and ge...