Performance Task

Introduction

Unit Development Template

Performance Task Title

Genetic Variability and the Dihybrid Cross

Performance Task Annotation

The purpose of this task is to demonstrate the role of meiosis in reproductive variability using Mendel’s Laws and a dihybrid cross simulation. As a result of this activity students will be able to describe the role and mechanisms of DNA in genetic inheritance and to explain the function of meiosis as a mechanism of reproductive variability.

This Performance Task one of seven tasks included in the Growth and Heredity Framework provided by the GaDOE. They include:
1. “How Can You “Leave A Plant To Reproduce on its Own?”
2. “Sternberg Task: Can You Decode the Molecule of Life?”
3. “Genetic Variability and the Dihybrid Cross”
4. “Is Wildlife Management Too Much To Bear?”
5. “Uncovering the Mysteries of the Hidden Genotype”
6. “Sternberg Task: Is Technology the Answer to Our Problems?”
7. “Doctor, What’s Wrong with my Child?”

This Performance Task Template is differentiated for (Optional):

Grade(s)

Subjects

Alternate E-mail Address (Optional)

Additional Authors (Optional)

Adrian N. Neely The following instructional plan is part of a GaDOE collection of Unit Frameworks, Performance Tasks, examples of Student Work, and Teacher Commentary.

Author

Lynda Byrne (Terminated User)

Approximate Duration of Performance Task

Task are differientiated according to "Basic," "Intermediate," and "Advanced"; duration will vary according to time needed by students to complete assigned task.

Focus Standards

Focus Standards

SB2 Students will analyze how biological traits are passed on to successive generations.

b. Explain the role of DNA in storing and transmitting cellular information.

Focus Standards

SCSh1 Students will evaluate the importance of curiosity, honesty, openness, and skepticism in science.

a. Exhibit the above traits in their own scientific activities.
b. Recognize that different explanations often can be given for the same evidence.
c. Explain that further understanding of scientific problems relies on the design and execution of new experiments which may reinforce or weaken opposing explanations.

Focus Standards

SCSh6 Students will communicate scientific investigations and information clearly.

b. Write clear, coherent accounts of current scientific issues, including possible alternative interpretations of the data.
c. Use data as evidence to support scientific arguments and claims in written or oral presentations.
d. Participate in group discussions of scientific investigation and current scientific issues.

Complementary Standards (Optional)

National and/or Local Standards (Optional)

Task and Assessment Procedures and Resources

Description and Teacher Directions

Three tasks differentiated by "Basic," "Intermediate," and "Advanced" allow students to describe the role and mechanisms of DNA in genetic inheritance and explain the function of meiosis as a mechanism of reproductive variability.

Attached are detailed instructions that include pre-assessment, outcome/performance expectations, instructional accommodations, worksheets, etc.

Rubric Title

Educators are encouraged to develop a rubric that will promote self-evaluation and revision and reveal degrees of proficiency based on the established criteria. The rubric should be developed and made public prior to implementing the task.

Rubric Description

In this framework, you will find a variety of tasks and situations in which students are given opportunities to demonstrate their understanding and thoughtfully apply their knowledge, skills, and habits of mind in a variety of contexts. These tasks may occur over time and result in a tangible product or observable performance. Educators are encouraged to develop a rubric that will promote self-evaluation and revision and reveal degrees of proficiency based on the established criteria. The rubric should be developed and made public prior to implementing the task.

Rubric(s) or other Performance Evaluation Tool-Attachment

Uploaded file: ~$ience-Rubric-Paragraph.doc

Student Handout (Optional)

Attachment(s) (Optional)

Uploaded file: Growth and Heredity Genetic Variability and the Dihybrid Cross.doc

Student Work with Teacher Commentary

Materials and Equipment

Materials and Equipment

Video Segments
The Dihybrid Cross; http://www.mansfieldct.org/schools/MMS/staff/hand/gendihybrid.htm

Increasing the Genetic Variability in Species: Crossing Over in Meiosis (02:19)
Sexual Reproduction: Producing Variations in the Genetic Material Within a Population (02:01)
Biologix: Meiosis and Gamete Formation. United Learning (1997).
Retrieved June 14, 2007, from unitedstreaming: http://www.unitedstreaming.com/

Use plastic Easter eggs to represent the gametes. Add a piece of yarn to four gametes to represent sperm.
Using a poster make an enlarged 4 x4 Punnett square and laminate. Erasable whiteboard markers can also be used on this as needed for instruction and clarification.

Technology Connection/Integration (Optional)

What 21st Century technology was used in this performance task?

Video

Web Site(s)

Differentiated Instruction

Readiness (Recommended)

Learning Profile (Recommended)

Student Interests (Recommended)

Attachment Title (Optional)

Attachment Description (Optional)

Attachment(s) (Optional)

Web Resource Title (Optional)

Web Resource Description (Optional)

Web resource(s) (Optional)

Additional Resources