Margaret M. Loos
One of the functions properly studied in Human Physiology is human reproduction and the passing on of genetic material to the next generation. Unfortunately in the text that I use genetics chiefly concerns itself with withered peas, (my apologies to Mendel) and apricot-eyed Drosophila. I would like to base this unit on human genetics, and the long hard research that has brought it to the “present state of the art.” This study offers the opportunity to involve mathematics, chemistry, sociology, history, philosophy, ethics, a little molecular biology and, of course, anatomy and physiology. I hope this unit will interest my students and contribute to their understanding of their place in the stream of life as well as acquaint them with recent progress in genetics. They must also be informed so they may develop their own values about future investigations and movements in the fields of genetic engineering, genetic counseling, and the possible dangers to genetic material in their environments and lifestyles.
I have developed 10 lesson plans that scan the field from the text background to the current literature in this subject. The vocabulary is developed sequentially, as well as the complexity of the material. Objectives are stated for each segment, especially since the individual lessons are presented in a format based on a different discipline. Activities accentuating visual impact are used as much as possible and strategies for motivation will vary, almost daily.
This unit is designed for biology or human physiology students. It should last about three weeks. The use of supplementary materials from current scientific and popular magazines is encouraged.
