Living cells reproduce and create more living cells.

• 21C.O.9-12.1.LS1 - Student recognizes information needed for problem solving, can efficiently browse, search and navigate online to access relevant information, evaluates information based on credibility, social, economic, political and/or ethical issues, and presents findings clearly and persuasively using a range of technology tools and media.
• 21C.O.9-12.1.LS2 - Student analyzes and interprets visuals and recognizes the impact digital media influences (e.g. design, technique, and rate of speed) have on audiences. The student’s visual products reflect a sophisticated understanding of subject, digital media and design techniques.
• 21C.O.9-12.1.LS3 - Student creates information using advanced skills of analysis, synthesis and evaluation and shares this information through a variety of oral, written and multimedia communications that target academic, professional and technical audiences and purposes.
• 21C.O.9-12.1.TT4 - Student uses audio, video, pictures, clip art, moviemaker programs, webpage design software, electronic documents and other files to collaborate for the creation of electronic products that inform multiple audiences both inside and outside the school environment.

• 21C.O.9-12.2.LS3 - Student engages in a problem solving process by formulating questions and applying complex strategies in order to independently solve problems.
• 21C.O.9-12.2.TT2 - Student collaborates with peers, experts and others to contribute to a content-related knowledge base by using technology to compile, synthesize, produce, and disseminate information, models, and other creative works.
• 21C.O.9-12.2.TT4 - Student uses technology tools and multiple media sources to analyze a real-world problem, design and implement a process to assess the information, and chart and evaluate progress toward the solution.

• 21C.O.9-12.3.LS3 - Student demonstrates ownership of his/her learning by setting goals, monitoring and adjusting performance, extending learning, using what he/she has learned to adapt to new situations, and displaying perseverance and commitment to continued learning.
• 21C.O.9-12.3.LS4 - Student demonstrates ethical behavior and works responsibly and collaboratively with others in the context of the school and the larger community, and he/she demonstrates civic responsibility through engagement in public discourse and participation in service learning.
• 21C.O.9-12.3.LS5 - Student exhibits positive leadership through interpersonal and problem-solving skills that contribute to achieving the goal. He/she helps others stay focused, distributes tasks and responsibilities effectively, and monitors group progress toward the goal without undermining the efforts of others.
• 21C.O.9-12.3.LS6 - Student maintains a strong focus on the larger project goal and frames appropriate questions and planning processes around goal. Prior to beginning work, student reflects upon possible courses of action and their likely consequences; sets objectives related to the larger goal; and establishes benchmarks for monitoring progress. While working on the project, student adjusts time and resources to allow for completion of a quality product.
• 21C.O.9-12.3.TT7 - Student protects his/her identity online and in email and/or websites, limits the distribution of personal information/pictures, and evaluates the authenticity of emails that solicit personal information.  Student identifies the methodologies that individuals and businesses can employ to protect the integrity of technology systems.

How do living cells reproduce and create new cells?

How can meiosis lead to variation?

How are traits passed from parent to offspring?

How can patterns be used to predict future offspring?

Inherited traits are passed from parent to offspring.

Inheritance patterns can be observed and predicted.

Genetic engineering may alter the makeup of an organism.

The Unit Vocabulary (divided by lessons)  placed on an individual Alpha Box graphic organizers and the classroom Word Wall during each lesson

How the structure of DNA influences an organism.

How the process of meiosis influences genetic variability.

How mutations can affect genetic variability.

How messages from DNA are interpreted and transferred.

How meiosis and the cell cycle affect the number of chromosomes and production of gametes and somatic cells.

The contributions of Gregor Mendel to the field of genetics.

Sequence the phases of meiosis and the cell cycle.

Construct and label a DNA molecule.

List the contributions of various scientists to the role of DNA in genetics.

Summarize the process of DNA replication.

Compare the structures of DNA and RNA.

Interpret DNA codes and transfer to RNA.

Construct and analyze a karyotype.

Solve simple Punnet squares of monohybrid and dihybrid crosses.

Calculate phenotypic and genotypic  ratios from genetics problems.

Analyze a pedigree chart.

Work sex-linked genetics problems.

Evaluate data from labs and lab simulations of genetic crosses.

Research and discuss the application of DNA technology.

Explain how it is possible to predict possible offspring with parental genotypes.

Discuss the significance of selective breeding in agricultural practices.

Debate the pros and cons of DNA technology

Research genetic diseases.

Access various Internet sites for instruction, reinforcement and review (keep a record of URLs posted in the classroom or ask each student to keep a list so that they may access on their own time for reinforcement and review)

Direct Instruction

Instruction with Multimedia

Note Taking

Directed Reading

Internet Research

Word Wall

Nonlinguistic Representation

FAT-P

Cooperative Learning

Graphic Organizers (Venn Diagram, Time Line, Frayer Model)

Cues, Questions and Advance Organizers

Summarizing

Think, Pair, Share

Alpha Boxes

Think Aloud

Questioning and Discussion

Laboratory Activities

Brainstorming

Self Evaluation

Peer Review

GIST

Performance Tasks

• Formative:
• Vocabulary teaching
• Taking notes
• Summaries
• Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down
• Self Evaluation
• Peer Review
• Summative:
• Quizzes and Tests
• Rubrics
• FAT-P:
• Venn diagrams
• Successful use of Internet to research genetic defects and biotechnology
• Completed pedigree chart
• Completed genetics problems