The Arizona STEM Acceleration Project
Introduction to Meiosis Through Modeling
Introduction to Meiosis Through Modeling
A 9th grade STEM lesson
Savita Narang
06/03/2024
Notes for teachers
List of Materials
Science Standards
HS.L3U1.24 Construct an explanation of how the process of
sexual reproduction contributes to genetic variation.
● In sexual reproduction, a specialized type of cell division called meiosis
occurs and results in the production of sex cells, such as gametes (sperm and
eggs) or spores, which contain only one member from each chromosome pair
in the parent cell.
● In sexual reproduction, chromosomes can sometimes swap sections during
the process of meiosis (cell division), thereby creating new genetic
combinations and thus more genetic variation. Although DNA replication is
tightly regulated and remarkably accurate, errors do occur and result in
mutations, which are also a source of genetic variation. Environmental factors
can also cause mutations.
HS.L3U1.25 Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information about the causes and implications of DNA mutation.
ELA Standards
9-10.SL.1 Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one‐on‐ one, in groups, and teacher‐led) with diverse partners on grades 9–10 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively. a. Come to discussions prepared having read and researched material under study; explicitly draw on that preparation by referring to evidence from texts and other research on the topic or issue to stimulate a thoughtful, well‐ reasoned exchange of ideas. b. Work with peers to set rules for collegial discussions and decision‐making (e.g., informal consensus, taking votes on key issues, and presentation of alternate views), clear goals and deadlines, and individual roles as needed. c. Propel conversations by posing and responding to questions that relate the current discussion to broader themes or larger ideas; actively incorporate others into the discussion; and clarify, verify, or challenge ideas and conclusions. d. Respond thoughtfully to diverse perspectives, summarize points of agreement and disagreement, and, when warranted, qualify or justify their own views and understanding and make new connections based on the evidence and reasoning presented.
Objective(s):
Today we will make chromosomes using beads.
Today we will model meiosis using chromosomes made with beads and other material provided.
Today we will sketch and summarize meiosis stages.
Agenda (One hour)
Meiosis
Meiosis is a cell division that occurs in sexually reproducing organisms.It produces eggs and sperms which have half the number of chromosomes as compared to body cells.
Hands-on Activity Instructions
In groups of 3 or 4, use the materials given to show the meiosis stage assigned to you.
After you are done, move around to see the models of other students. You may critique if you think something needs to be changed.
Sketch and summarize all the stages of meiosis on the handout given to you.
Constraints:
Time limit
Materials
Assessment
We create chromosomes.
We model the stage assigned to our group.
We critique the models of our peers.
We sketch and summarize all the stages of meiosis.
We take a quiz.
Differentiation
Mixed Groups:
Since this activity is to be done in a group, different roles can be assigned to different students according to their interests and abilities.
Student 1: Create chromosomes.
Student 2: Arrange chromosomes, spindle fibres, and centrioles.
Student 3: Draw cell and nuclear membrane etc.
Student 4: Write summary of the stage assigned.
Extension/Enrichment
Students can be asked to differentiate mitosis and meiosis.