Week 8

 

Week 8: 

1.) We began the lab this week by checking in on our fast plants. I was honestly surprised to see that Avery and I’s plant were still hanging on. After how badly it was doing last week, I thought that it was for sure a goner. Then we discussed our reading assignment that was due on Sunday over the 5E Model. One of the challenges to implementing the 5E model for preservice teachers is that they may feel contrained over time. There are 5 components to the 5E model, and it can seem like a loaded task to fit all components of the model into a normal lesson timeframe. In order to overcome this challenge and others, it is recommended that pre-service teachers collaborate with colleagues and work on professional development. It is also important to have a good understanding of the 5E model. Finally, we did a worksheet on mutations. There are three different types of mutations: deletion, insertion, and substitution. In the example of subsitution on the worksheet, the phenotype did not change. However, the phenotype did change during insertion and deletion. Mutations can have positive or negative effects, but they are usually neutral.

 

4.) Teaching about DNA and mutations can be a very complex topic for younger students. I know that I was confused when I was learning about the topic. The activity made it clear how subsitution, insertion, and deleition affect phenotype. The superhero worksheet was a great way to help students develop their understanding of mutations. Kids love sueprheros, so I believe that the topic would engage kids. Maybe to encourage even more engagement, the students could pick superpowers or even design superheroes and supervillains.

 

5.) I understand how the different mutations affect phenotypes, but I am still confused on how to identify mutation types. Are there any tips for identifying mutation types? I would like more practice to help me become more confident in my ability to do this. However, I’m sure that with more experience, I’ll get it down.