In this lab, we flipped coins to simulate sex, which of course leads to the offspring obtaining traits. Each side of the coin represented one possible allele (for the genotype using two genes). We tested and compared different experiments (including mono- and dihybrid punnett squares that made predictions about the offspring's traits) and saw if the results matched our predictions. Some of the traits were autosomal and some were X-linked. The coins and the flipping represents segregation and independent assortment because of their randomness. The results of the dihybrid cross didn't match with the prediction because most of the resulting genotypes were heterozygous dominant, while there were no homozygous recessive genotypes. We predicted that there would be three phenotypes of blonde hair with brown eyes, but there were only two of them. Probability can be predicted, but it isn't always accurate. The results predicted by the punnett square cannot be and aren't correct at all times. This understanding can be used in the event that I have a child, and its traits can be predicted using genetic tests and punnett squares.
The overall theme of the entire unit was genetics. The main ideas of the unit started with the cell cycle, or mitosis. Then, we were introduced to meiosis and were able to compare and contrast between the two. Later, we learned about what happens before sex, and we re-learned the basics of traditional dominance discovered by the scientist Gregor Mendel. In addition, asexual and sexual reproduction were compared and contrasted, and the laws of segregation and independent assortment were taught to us. There are many exceptions to the traditional expections of genetics, including incomplete dominance, codominance, and polygenic traits. Lastly, we learned about how probability ties together with punnett squares and how punnett squares are drawn and used.
My strengths were re-learning the basics of the genetics discovered by Gregor Mendel and the process of meiosis. I was able to understand the major concepts and main ideas of this unit. One weakness I have is applying my knowledge of genotypes and punnett squares (with monohybrid and dihybrid crosses) to questions about the inheritance of traits. Sometimes, it gets confusing to put together all the possible genotypes and draw the punnett square to predict the probability of a trait. I was able to manage the class by completing all of my vodcasts and other homework on time. I now have more knowledge about genetics and how to apply it to certain situations. By doing the infographic, I learned that writing words on paper isn't the only way to keep and remember information. The use of pictures and graphics helps to make certain concepts easier to understnad and apply. Infogrpahics are a good way to learn in general and are interesting to study. I am a better student now because I know more and can do vodcasts and labs better because of more practice. In the future, I would like to learn more about the exceptions of genetics and how exactly they work and create so much genetic variation in the world.
INFOGRAPHIC
My strengths were re-learning the basics of the genetics discovered by Gregor Mendel and the process of meiosis. I was able to understand the major concepts and main ideas of this unit. One weakness I have is applying my knowledge of genotypes and punnett squares (with monohybrid and dihybrid crosses) to questions about the inheritance of traits. Sometimes, it gets confusing to put together all the possible genotypes and draw the punnett square to predict the probability of a trait. I was able to manage the class by completing all of my vodcasts and other homework on time. I now have more knowledge about genetics and how to apply it to certain situations. By doing the infographic, I learned that writing words on paper isn't the only way to keep and remember information. The use of pictures and graphics helps to make certain concepts easier to understnad and apply. Infogrpahics are a good way to learn in general and are interesting to study. I am a better student now because I know more and can do vodcasts and labs better because of more practice. In the future, I would like to learn more about the exceptions of genetics and how exactly they work and create so much genetic variation in the world.
INFOGRAPHIC
