Genes and Disease

Imagine a world where genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis or cancer could be cured. This is the promise of modern genetics, a field that is rapidly advancing and revolutionizing our understanding of health and disease. To better understand the advancements being made, we must first understand how our body works, how genes are inherited, and the causes of diseases.

This honors-level course explores the fascinating world of genetics, investigating the fundamental principles that govern inheritance, gene expression, and the development of diseases. Students will gain a deep understanding of the cellular basis of life, the role of proteins in cellular processes, and the genetic factors that contribute to the diversity of life and the development of diseases.

This semester-long course will engage students through hands-on simulations, case studies, videos, group activities, research and more. Students will use their analytic skills and genetic tools (Pedigrees and Punnett squares) to identify patterns and predict the likelihood of inheriting certain genetic diseases. Students will research diseases, and collaborate as they explore the ethical implications surrounding genetic screening, testing and the future of genomics in medicine.

In this honors level course, students are expected to invest approximately 8 hours per week on their course work.

Acknowledgements

Successful completion of a full year of high school biology or equivalent.
This course contains an end-of-course proctored exam. Instructions for students to identify an appropriate adult proctor are included in the course lessons.

Course Objectives

Course Essential Questions:

How do genetic information and cellular processes interact to influence health and disease?
How do genetic inheritance and environmental factors contribute to the development of disease?
How can biotechnology be used to understand, diagnose, and treat genetic diseases?

Course Learning Objectives:

Apply the fundamental principles of genetics to predict inheritance patterns of disease.
Identify and evaluate the impact the environment has on genes and disease.
Explain how biotechnology can be used to diagnose and treat genetic diseases.

Additional Requirements

Students will be asked to supply some common materials to perform a few hands-on activities including dice, colored paper or candy, pipe cleaners and beads, and miscellaneous other craft supplies (student choice). Having clay or playdough is also recommended.