Unit X- Inheritance and Variation of Traits: Lesson 3 Introduction Activity

NGSS Standard: HS-LS3-2. Make and defend a claim based on evidence that inheritable
genetic variations may result from: (1) new genetic combinations through meiosis, (2) viable
errors occurring during replication, and/or (3) mutations caused by environmental factors.

Lesson Learning Objective: Students will develop an argument including a claim, evidence,
and reasoning, about how mutations and environmental factors can influence genetic
expression in humans and animals using their notes on a video about radiation’s impact after
the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown.

Target Vocab to be Developed: mutations, radiation, genetic variation, gene expression, traits

Lesson-Level Phenomenon: During this lesson, we will be introducing students to the

phenomenon of the Chernobyl nuclear meltdown in order to expose them to the idea of how
environmental impacts such as radiation can impact gene expression.
The Animals of Chernobyl

Directions: You will be watching a video and creating a KWL (Know, Want to know, Learned)
chart about the Chernobyl nuclear event. Log on to your Chromebooks or use your phone to
access this link to your KWL chart: The Animals of Chernobyl KWL Chart
Before the video begins, you will fill out the K section of your chart with what you already know
about Chernobyl, mutations, and radiation. After completing the K section, a few volunteers will
share their ideas with the class. Once this is done, you will also complete the W section of your
chart with what you want to know/learn about Chernobyl, radiation, and mutations before
watching the video. This section can also contain questions you might have. Again, a few
volunteers will share. Once the K and W sections of the chart are completed, you will watch a
short video about the animals that lived around the area where Chernobyl took place. As you
are watching the video, you will fill out the L section of your chart with what you are learning.
Once the video is finished, you will have a few minutes to wrap up your thoughts and finish your
KWL chart before a final class discussion.

KWL Chart Requirements: The K section of your chart must have at least 2 ideas of what you
know, or think , you know, about Chernobyl, mutations, or radiation. Even if you do not think
your ideas are correct, please write them down. The W and L sections of your chart must
include a minimum of 5 ideas or bullet point notes. You do not have to use full sentences, but
your ideas do have to be complete.