WEBQUEST

Genetic Disease - Teacher's Section

Alternative Activities

There are several activities that can also be used to extend the webquest:

1) Find the mutation. Print out the following pdf (2 pages) on overhead transparencies. The DNA sequences have one base change. If the pages are examined side-by-side, it is very hard to identify the mutation. However, it is easy to detect by overlaying the two overheads. This would be a great starting point for a discussion on how modern computing has enabled the genomic revolution.

CF Mutations Overhead pdf.

2) Perform your own DNA extractions. Students can collect cells by scraping the inside of their cheeks with a tongue depressor or swishing water in their mouths DNA will be precipitated by treatments with a soap and salt solution and isopropyl alcohol.

3) Create your own family tree. Several web sites provide instructions for producing a family tree that shows genetic traits.

http://www.nsgc.org/consumer/familytree/index.asp
http://www.hhs.gov/familyhistory/

This could be a springboard to discuss other kinds of genetic diseases, as well as how certain genes may make individuals susceptible to diseases. This could lead to a discussion about how environment and personal choices affect health.

4) Take an inventory of genetic traits (tongue rolling, widow’s peak, etc.) and compare to other classmates.

Genetic Traits presentation
Genetic Traits worksheet
Genetic Traits worksheet key

This WebQuest would be easily adaptable to the Jigsaw technique, a cooperative learning technique that reduces racial conflict among school children, promotes better learning, improves student motivation, and increases enjoyment of the learning experience. See www.jigsaw.org for instructions for this technique.

Students also could be given a list of different genetic diseases to research according to their roles (no bioinformatics with this option). A good resource is www.ygyh.org. This site has a list of well characterized diseases.