Description

Using red and white plastic extrusions and charts to record experimental data, students learn that: 1) The result of a single trial of a chance event does not necessarily effect the results of later trails of the same event 2) The chance that two independent events will occur together is the multiplication of their chances of occurring separately. Application of this lab activity extends to Mendelian laws of genetics. They first determine random selection probabilities, and then simulate production for the PTC gene. Next, they simulate a male-female gene pairing during fertilization to produce specific traits. Finally, they establish mathematical genetic formulas.

• Maximum 30 students/8 groups
• One 50 minute class perio
• All materials reusable
• Student guides incorporate literacy skills

Concepts Illustrated:

• Clarify the laws of chance and probability
• Understand the result of single trials of chance and the effect on later trials of the same event
• Determine random selection probabilities, simulate gamete production and gene pairing to establish mathematical genetic formulas