1.Cells are filled with cytoplasm and organelles, each with specific
functions
2.Gene expression controlled by chemical signals determines cell
type
3.Genes are discrete units; dominant/recessive patterns determine
expression
4.Mutations can be beneficial, harmful, or neutral depending on
context
[!] STUDY GUIDE: Big Ideas
Use to answer form questions!
1.Sexual reproduction creates genetic diversity.
Offspring get a unique mix of alleles from two parents through
meiosis.
2.Asexual reproduction creates identical clones.
Offspring get exact copies of one parent's DNA through
mitosis.
3.Genetic diversity helps populations survive.
Varied traits mean some individuals can survive environmental
changes or diseases.
Sexual: Meiosis->Mix of Alleles->Unique Offspring|Asexual: Mitosis->Exact Copy->Clone
TWO PATHS: Sexual creates diversity; Asexual creates copies
[#] KEY TERMS
Define in YOUR words
Sexual Reproduction
Two parents combine genes
Asexual Reproduction
One parent makes copies
Meiosis
Cell division for sex cells
Mitosis
Cell division for body cells
[?] THE PHENOMENON
Write BEFORE Hook form
Why do some traits skip generations?
Sometimes grandchildren have traits that neither of their parents
have - but their grandparents did! How can a trait "hide" for a
generation and then reappear?
Your initial thinking:
[>] AFTER HOOK FORM
Reflect, then continue+2 pts
I learned that...
Station 1 — Reproduction Comparison Lab
Meiosis differs from mitosis because...
Sexual reproduction creates variety by...
Key insight:
Station 2 — Genetic Diversity Analysis
Diversity helps populations by...
Clones are vulnerable because...
Key insight:
[/] DAY 1 EXIT TICKET
Complete before leaving+5 pts
Q1:
Compare sexual and asexual reproduction. What is the main advantage
of each?
Q2:
Why is the Cavendish banana at risk of extinction? (Hint: think
about how they reproduce)
Confidence:
Sexual vs Asexual Reproduction (continued)
Name:
[=]Day 2 start
Station 3 — Design a Conservation Strategy
The endangered species I'm helping...
Current genetic diversity problem...
My strategy to increase diversity...
Key insight:
[+] MAKING CONNECTIONS
Use for Exit Ticket!
How do mutations (W6) and sexual reproduction work together to create
genetic diversity?
Why is genetic diversity important for populations? What happens
without it?
[/] DAY 2 EXIT TICKET
Final check before Science Circle+5 pts
Q1 (NEW):
Explain why asexual reproduction produces genetically identical
offspring while sexual reproduction produces variation.
Q2 (SPIRAL - W6):
How can mutations be beneficial for a population's survival over
time?
Q3 (INTEGRATION):
Why is genetic diversity important for populations? Use mathematical
reasoning to explain how trait frequency changes over time.
CHECKTEST YOUR THINKINGRate each: FALSE ← 1–2–3–4–5 → TRUE
1. Cells are hollow or empty inside
F12345T
2. Cell specialization is random or luck-based
F12345T
3. Traits from parents blend like mixing paint
F12345T
4. Mutations are always harmful
F12345T
5. Cells are filled with cytoplasm and organelles, each with specific functions
F12345T
Pick any TWO statements — especially any you rated 2, 3, or 4. Justify your rating with evidence:
Statement #___ — I rated it ___ because:
Statement #___ — I rated it ___ because:
[O] SCIENCE CIRCLE
~15 min | End of week+3 pts
[!] My "Aha!" Moment
[?] My Remaining Question
Discussion Protocol: Share ahas, listen actively,
record class discoveries.