Biotechnology
Corn Genetics and Statistical Analysis
Grade Level: High School
One form of genetic modification that has been used for centuries is artificial selection, or selective breeding. This is the selection of individuals or populations possessing desirable traits to produce the next generation. This process has given rise to many of the plants and animals we encounter every day, including: different breeds of dogs, some good at hunting and retrieving game and others that are specifically bred for companionship and living in a house; and different breeds of cattle, some bred for milk production and others bred specifically
for beef. Corn has been developed and is constantly being improved to produce higher yields in drought conditions, resistance to pests, and other advantageous characteristics through this process. Artificial selection is also important in that it played an important role in the development of the theory of natural selection. An understanding of Mendelian inheritance and statistical analysis of the results of crosses is important in determining the genes of an organism and the ability to produce offspring with the desired traits.
In this lab, students will observe ears of corn from F2 plants produced by a dihybrid cross for the traits of kernel color and endosperm composition, which changes the shape of the kernel. The color blue is dominant to yellow and the starchy nonwrinkled endosperm is dominant to a sugary wrinkled endosperm. Students will hypothesize the genotypes of the parents (F1 generation). First looking at each trait independently, and then looking at the independent assortment or linkage between the two traits. These hypotheses will be used to make predictions that will be analyzed by collecting data and applying a chi-square test.
Teaching the Lesson
About Kansas Corn STEM
Investing in Kansas teachers and students is a priority for the Kansas Corn Commission. We are committed to providing materials and training to support STEM education while fostering an understanding of how corn farming and agriculture fit into our daily lives. Professional development workshops are offered to teachers seeking to expand their knowledge and inquiry-based teaching skills. Workshop participants receive free lab supplies needed for the lessons.
Workshop InfoThis lesson is the work product of the Kansas Corn Commission. Our lessons are written in collaboration with Kansas teachers for use in the classroom. Teachers may copy and share this curriculum. Use of this product for commercial or promotional use is prohibited without express permission of Kansas Corn.
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