Links:
REAL TIME EVOLUTION
OBJECTIVES:
Swab areas of school students believe will have an abundance of “germs” (bacteria)
Monitor the growth of the “germs” by observing them on Petri dishes
Use antibiotics to observe any changes in the growth of the “germs” once they are placed on new Petri dishes
PRIOR LEARNING:
Techniques to collect and streak a Petri dish
Secondary level knowledge of the concept of Evolution, survival of the fittest, etc.
MATERIALS:
As per student
Petri dishes, nutrient agar, sterile swabs, incubator, antibiotic discs
WEBSITES/SUGGESTIONS:
http://www.fda.gov/oc/opacom/hottopics/anit_resist.html
http://www.tufts.edu/med/apua/Q&A/Q&A_AR.html
ROLES IN LESSON:
STUDENT:
Collection, labeling, and monitoring of bacteria collected from school building sites
Plating and transfer of bacteria for observation
Placement of antibiotic discs and continued observation
Accurately recording data
Determining if viable bacteria exist after exposing them to antibiotic discs
Lab report including findings
TEACHER:
Assist in selecting, obtaining, or purchasing materials for students
Monitor student progress
Provide feedback along with checkpoints for work completion
WRAP UP:
Students collect and observe information about “germs”
Students determine if any of the “germs” are resistant to antibiotics
ASSESSMENT:
Real Time Evolution Rubric
NYS STANDARDS:
STANDARD 4
Students will understand and apply scientific concepts, principles, and theories pertaining to the physical setting and living environment and recognize the historical development of ideas in science.
Key Idea 3:
Individual organisms and species change over time.
Major Understandings
3.1f Species evolve over time. Evolution is the consequence of the interactions of (1) the potential for a species to increase its numbers, (2) the genetic variability of offspring due to mutation and recombination of genes, (3) a finite supply of the resources required for life, and (4) the ensuing selection by the environment of those offspring better able to survive and leave offspring.
3.1g Some characteristics give individuals an advantage over others in surviving and reproducing, and the advantaged offspring, in turn, are more likely than others to survive and reproduce. The proportion of individuals that have advantageous characteristics will increase.
3.1h The variation of organisms within a species increases the likelihood that at least some members of the species will survive under changed environmental conditions.
PRENTICE HALL REVIEW BOOK TOPIC:
TOPIC 5- Evolution
EXTENSION IDEAS:
Reinforce the importance of hand washing
Discuss the importance of following prescribed dosage and duration of prescribed medicines