Describes a classroom exercise that uses a letter from Max Delbruck to George Beadle to stimulate interest in the mechanics of a nonoverlapping comma-free code. Enables students to participate in the rich history of molecular biology and illustrates to them that scientists and science can be fun. (JRH)

Presented is a discussion of recent evidence on the evolution of human forms on earth gathered and evaluated using mitochondrial DNA techniques. Theories regarding the possibility that a common female ancestor existed in Africa about 200,000 years ago are discussed. A list of teaching aids is provided. (CW)

Describes the use of a Pac-Man model (called a Pactype) in teaching various genetics concepts. Indicates that students can learn to make predictions, analyze patterns of inheritance, and evaluate hypotheses before being introduced to the genetics vocabulary. (JN)

Focuses on genetic concepts that form key components of transmission genetics and illustrates how the domestic cat can be used in the teaching of these concepts. Offers examples of how laboratory experiences with the cat can enhance student learning of genetics. (ML)

Investigated common belief patterns secondary school students (N=84) have about inheritance, noting the most prevalent misconceptions about genetics which occur at different age levels. Implications based on findings and suggestions for teaching lower secondary courses are included. (ML)

"Science as a Way of Knowing" is a project of the Education Committee of the American Society of Zoologists and ten other organizations. The goal of the project is to offer suggestions for making the teaching of biology at the college and university level more effective. The proceedings of the 1985 symposium on genetics are presented in…

Presents an overview of a genetics course including explanations of major concepts, principles, and sequencing methods. Describes the typical participating student's background and prior knowledge level. Appendices contain a list of terms and three concept maps. (ML)

This laboratory provides an easy and rapid way to introduce students to some of the exciting principles of gene regulation by analyzing expression of the lac operon of Escherichia coli. (PR)

This 10-chapter guidebook, designed to supplement a basic textbook in biology, provides lessons that demonstrate the application of biological principles and concepts. Chapter 1 is an introduction. Chapters 2 to 5, organized around the key concept of homeostasis, discuss the evolution of the external environment of earth compared to the internal…

The porphyrias are a family of genetic disorders whose genetics and biochemistry are largely identified. Background information on these diseases are discussed including porphyrins, gene expression, population genetics, and historical significance. (CW)

Discusses the advantages of basing computer simulations on analogues of nature rather than mathematical models. Explains the concept of heritability and describes how a computer simulation can help undergraduate students understand this concept. (ML)

Presented are suggestions for using human pedigrees in the classroom and a generic pedigree that can be modified and used by instructors to provide variants for analysis. Eight single-gene mechanisms of inheritance are defined for use in this activity. (CW)

Shows how fruit flies can be used in the teaching genetics laboratory to correlate the principles of heredity with the modern understanding of enzymes. (Contains 16 references.) (MDH)

Describes several laboratory experiments that are adaptations of clinical tests for certain genetic diseases in babies. Information and procedures are provided for tests for phenylketonuria (PKU), galactosemia, tyrosinemia, cystinuria, and mucopolysaccharidosis. Discusses the effects of each disease on the infants' development. (TW)

Biological Science Grade 7, a one semester course in the Los Angeles Unified School District, provides students with opportunities for a comprehensive study of living organisms using an investigative approach. This course outline is designed to assist teachers in planning and implementing daily and weekly lessons and in meeting course objectives.…