The Hardy-Weinberg principle states that alleles and genotypes remain constant in the absence of evolutionary influences. Scholars complete a simple hands-on activity applying the Hardy-Weinberg principle to sample data. They observe how natural selection alters allele frequency and create graphs displaying their data. To finish, they interpret the data and graphs to reinforce key concepts in natural selection.

Concepts

alleles, evolution, genotypes, hemoglobin, heterozygosity, malaria, natural selection, genetics, red blood cells, sickle cell anemia

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Additional Tags

science

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Instructional Ideas

• Work the procedure in part one as a guided practice or whole group activity to make sure everyone understands before staring the hands-on portion

Classroom Considerations

• Relies on prior knowledge of the Hardy-Weinberg principle, evolution, alleles, and genotype frequency
• Gather all supplies, making sure to have more than enough beads, well before the class time

Pros

• Provides a complete answer key and addresses common misconceptions
• Connects science, math, and writing

Cons

• None

Common Core

HSS-IC.A.1 HSS-IC.A.2 HSS-IC.B.3 HSS-IC.B.4 HSS-IC.B.5 HSS-MD.B.6 RST.9-10.4 RST.9-10.7 RST.11-12.4 RST.11-12.7