Objectives/ Review of Standards
This unit is unique in that it integrates a number of standards for learning to create one comprehensive set of requirements and expectations for students in the science courses. In 2014 my school will adopt the new Common Core Standards, but until then we will continue teaching with the California State Standards while trying to incorporate some of the new concepts with Common Core. Most currently, California schools refer to the California State Standards that are a set of topics students should know and understand. This includes structure of DNA and genetics as well as basic investigation and experimentation knowledge. California is soon progressing to the Common Core Standards for Humanities and Mathematics, which focus on project-based learning and require students to move beyond knowing to demonstration of understanding. Although science standards are not included in Common Core, they are addressed in the Next Generation Science Standards. Lastly, this unit ties in project based learning within STEM education. STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) is currently a favorable program among California schools, which are looking to invest in challenging and engaging curriculum to help students develop interests in STEM fields. There is an aspect of each field throughout this unit.
Specific Standards in the Unit
Content on structure and function of cells and DNA addresses California State Standards in Cell Biology and Genetics. Within these standards, this unit addresses the structure and function of DNA, RNA and proteins. Students will understand the semiconservative structure and replication of the DNA and the mutations that can occur. These standards include knowledge of the pathway of the central dogma, the synthesis of proteins, reading of the genetic code, and understanding of the characteristics of proteins made from amino acids. Lastly, students will be introduced to biotechnology and how it is used in studying DNA when they complete their gel electrophoresis lab. The section on human health and single gene diseases covers the Physiology standards pertaining to knowledge of blood function in the circulatory system, waste excretion and nutrient intake of the respiratory system, and sense and perception in the nervous system. The challenge portion of the unit in which students manipulate the genes to cure known diseases incorporates CSS in Investigation and Experimentation that include analyzing situations and problem solving based on concepts from more that one area of science. Lastly, this unit covers standards in the Next Generation Science Requirements pertaining to modeling mutations and assessing the affect a mutation has on an organism.
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