Classical Genetics: Meiosis, Fertilization and Marriage Lab

         In their recent study of classical genetics, the AP Biology classes examined their phenotypes and genotypes for a number of different genetic traits. They then used them to prepare chromosomes to be used to determine the traits they would pass on to their offspring. The students in the class were randomly paired up and given "marriage certificates" allowing them, for one day only, to share their chromosomes (bearing their genes) to see what traits would appear in their children.  

   

    This exercise asked the question "How does gametogenesis and fertilization determine the phenotype of a human?".  Each student cut out chromosomes simulated the segregation of alleles and homologous chromosomes in the meiotic production of monoploid gametes followed by the return to the diploid state as the homologous chromosomes from a male and a female are recombined in the process of fertilization.  

   

     The lab helped illustrate to the students the various ways genetic information of parents is recombined in human offspring. There were examples of dominant and recessive traits, sex linked traits, polygenic inherited traits, and epistatic genes in their chromosomes. 

    

     As part of their lab reports, students were asked to produce a birth announcement for one of their children. They were also to render a representation of the child as a teenager.

Birth Announcement for the K. Bianco and P. Gordon baby girl touting her unique traits.

 

A very creative birth announcement for the daughter of H. Bothwell and B. Davies.