Week 8

 


This week in lab, I learned that structural changes to genes, known as mutations, can impact proteins and may lead to harmful, beneficial, or neutral effects on an organism's structure of function. Mutations involve changes in the DNA sequence, whether it is a nucleotide or base. I also gained a deeper understanding of how DNA codes for proteins. Every three bases form a codon, which corresponds to a specific amino acid which is often referred to as the building blocks of proteins. These three-letter sequences provide the instructions for assembling proteins one step at a time, with certain codons signaling when to start or stop the process. 

Our discussion on genotypes and phenotypes was easily connected to what we have been learning in lab and lecture over the past few weeks. Genotypes refer to the combination of alleles inherited from parents for a specific gene, while phenotypes are the observable characteristics or traits that result from gene expression. Other influences on phenotypes can be environmental factors. During last week's baby lab it helped me understand how various traits appear in humans. Within that context, this week we focused on dominant and recessive genes.

For my future classroom, I will use the two DNA mutation simulations that served as valuable modeling resources. Simulations can be excellent tools for promoting active student engagement. This can be done through either individual exploration or collaborative group work. They encourage critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper understanding of scientific concepts. Simulations help students make meaningful connections to their learning through the real-world applications provided.

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