Inheritance and genetics

Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for human health. But how can we source them sustainably? Professor Johnathan Napier of Rothamstead Research talks about the role that Omega-3 fatty acids play in our diets, how we currently source them from algae via fish, and how he hopes to use genetic engineering to breed plants that produce these molecules in their oils.

Interviews with scientists - How big data is transforming biology

in this 6 minute video, Professor David Salt of the University of Aberdeen introduces the topic of ‘big data’ – huge data sets that are at the heart of much of today’s cutting edge biological research. He talks about what big data is, how researchers work with it to test their hypotheses, and what the potential implications may be for scientific research in the future.

Interviews with scientists - Dr Cristobal Uauy on wheat genomics and yield

This 5-minute video interview with Dr Cristobal Uauy of the John Innes Centre introduces post-16 students to contemporary genomics and food security. The accompanying notes include a teachers' summary, plus student questions and answers.

A-level set practicals - investigating flower structure and function in primulas

In this activity, students follow in Darwin’s footsteps, investigating primulas. They will dissect and record primula flowers, which grow in two forms: ‘pin-eyed’ and ‘thrum-eyed’. This resource is designed to meet the specifications for the A-level practical endorsement in England (CPAC). However, given its focus on adaptation and evolution, it will make a valuable resource for those following a variety of different specifications, such as the Advanced Higher Biology Organisms and Evolution Unit.

Epigenetics - The science behind the poster

How can understanding photosynthesis help save thousands of lives every year? In this article, accompanying our poster on 'C4 Rice', we take a deeper look at the hidden aspects of photosynthesis and the work UK scientists are hoping might increase crop yields dramatically.

Revising A-level Biology: Plants 'R' Mint

'Revising A-level Biology: Plants ‘r’ mint' is an innovative revision resource, designed to encourage synoptic thinking and to develop a broader understanding of biology in A2 students. Each of the four student revision packs brings together a range of topics in animal, human and plant biology, centred on a common theme. The revision packs are intended to stretch and challenge students.

Evolutionary relationships, phylogenetic trees and finding new drugs

How can understanding phylogenetic trees and the evolutionary relationships between species lead to the discovery of new drugs for Alzheimers and other ? These resources for post-16 students introduce evolutionary relationships and phylogenetic trees, putting it in the context of modern drug discovery. Topics covered include creating a phylogenetic tree, using DNA and protein sequences to determine evolutionary relationships, and identifying possible sources of new drugs. The resources include teachers' guide, students' worksheets and a Powerpoint.

Video clip - Thomas Fairchild, speciation and evolution

This BBC video clip introduces 18th century botanist and entrepreneur Thomas Fairchild and his pioneering work into speciation. Use in lessons covering evolution and speciation or as an example of artificial manipulation of life. Could contribute to discussions of genetic modification.

Video clip - Classification techniques and the search for useful plants

This BBC video clip looks at the way in which classification techniques are used by research scientists at Kew Gardens in their search for new medicines and other useful plants. A real world use for this is demonstrated using a variety of sage plant with the ability to produce a chemical which may be effective in the treatment of malaria.

Video clip - The discovery of gene switches in maize

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces maize as a source of genetic variation, for use as an introduction to the principles of gene interactions and gene switching and the importance of collecting enough data to ensure reliability

Video clip - Vavilov and the establishment of the first seed banks

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces Russian scientist Nikolai Vavilov, and how his aim to cross different varieties of plants led him to establish the first seed bank. This method of storing genetic material is now internationally important. This video can be used to introduce the ideas of conservation of genetic resources, especially in the context of changes in climate and the damaging effects of human activity.

Video clip - Norman Borlaug and selective breeding of wheat

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces the American scientist Norman Borlaug, the man behind the 'green revolution' credited with saving over a billion people from starvation.

Video clip - Variation, inheritance and the work of Mendel

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) introduces the ideas of inheritance of characteristics, with a discussion of Mendel's research into patterns of inheritance in pea plants. This can also be used to introduce a lesson on the history of science and ideas.

Video clip - The case for genetically modified crop plants

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) looks at the case for genetic modification of crop plants, and could be used for a useful stimulus for a class discussion.

Video clip - Muriel Wheldale and complex gene interactions

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) looks at how geneticists in the early 20th century investigated the puzzle of the inheritance of characteristics. This can be used to introduce more complex patterns of inheritance to more confident students. These can include ideas of co-dominance, epistasis etc.

Video clip - William Bateson and patterns of inheritance

This video clip from the BBC (from the TV series Botany: A Blooming History) continues the story of the pioneers of genetic research, showing how William Bateson used logic and patience to explain patterns of inheritance, and the ideas of dominant and recessive genes. Students can then be given experimental data to interpret and develop the skills of showing simple inheritance patterns using punnet squares.

Using Onions in the Lab

Onions are easy and cheap to source, and make a great resource for looking at cell structure, particularly stomata, and for extracting DNA.

Using Cress in the Lab

Cress seeds are cheap and easy to grow, and offer a useful way to look at the germination process.

Using Spider Plants in the Lab

Spider plants are a useful, cheap and reliable resource for investigating topics including asexual reproduction and the role of plant hormones.

Fast plants for finer science - an article from the Journal of Biological Education

An article introducing 'fast plants' (rapid-cycling brassicas) for use in the classroom.

Articles tagged as "Inheritance and genetics"