Putting DNA to Work
The Gene Scene
 Overview of Activity
Students are introduced to the concept of genetics through a series of interactive activities and games. They learn basic definitions and explore various applications through which the study of DNA affects daily lives.
Activity Type: Online
URL: http://www.ology.amnh.org/genetics/index.html
Level of Difficulty: Introductory
Amount of Time Required for Activity: Two 45-minute periods
Description
The activity can be divided into a pre- and post-visit activity. Before visiting the museum students can look at What’s The Big Idea?, Go on a Genetic Journey and What Makes You, You? The following is a list of the sections of the Gene Scene with a brief description of each part.
What’s The Big Idea?- This section defines terms used in the study of genetics, such as DNA, genes, genome and Gregor Mendel.
Go on a Genetic Journey- Students make observations about their own genetic traits and then compare their traits to other people.
What Makes You, You? – Students start off by zooming in on a skin cell and then getting a closer and closer look at chromosomes and the basic structure of DNA.
This activity is produced by the American Museum of Natural History.
Relation to the Science Standards
Middle School
Content Standard A - Understanding about Scientific Inquiry
Content Standard C - Life Science- Structure and Function, and Reproduction and Heredity
Content Standard E - Understanding about Science and Technology
Content Standard F - Science in Personal and Social Perspectives—Personal and Community Health, Population Growth
Content Standard G - Science as a Human Endeavor and Nature of Science
Related Part of the Exhibit
Introduction
 More Pre-Visit Activities
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