Unit 42: Genetics and Inheritance

Day 2 of 30

History of genetics: Mendel's experiments

6-8Science

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Learning Objective

Students will explore history of genetics and mendel's experiments through guided practice and application.

Today's Lesson

In this lesson, we'll explore history of genetics: mendel's experiments. Scientific inquiry allows us to investigate and explain natural phenomena.

An experiment is a controlled test to see if a hypothesis is correct. In an experiment, you change one thing (the variable) and keep everything else the same, then observe what happens. For example, to test which paper airplane design flies farthest, you'd launch each design the same way and measure the distance. Careful experiments give us reliable data and help us understand cause and effect!

As you work through today's material, pay attention to the examples and try to identify the patterns or strategies being used. This will help you apply these concepts to new problems.

Take notes on key points and make connections to what you've already learned in previous lessons.

Key Terms
History

The study of past events and their causes

Investigate

To examine systematically through observation and experiment

Activities
Instructions
1. Read the background information on history of genetics: mendel's experiments. 2. Form a hypothesis before beginning. 3. Conduct the investigation following procedures. 4. Record observations and analyze results.
Materials Needed
  • Lab notebook
  • Investigation materials
  • Safety equipment if needed
Practice Problems
1

List the steps of the scientific method in order.

Hint: Start with asking a question.
2

Write a hypothesis for this question: "Does music help plants grow?"

Hint: Use "If...then..." format.
3

Why is it important to have a control group in an experiment?

Hint: What do we compare the results to?

Teaching Tip

For advanced learners: Encourage deeper analysis and real-world connections. Consider extension activities that allow students to apply history of genetics: mendel's experiments to novel situations.

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