Web Exercises

Web Exercise #1: Sex Determination

LO 2.1: Describe the process of cell reproduction and patterns of genetic inheritance.

This chapter introduces students to two processes of cell reproduction: mitosis and meiosis. Further, it describes the importance of the 23rd pair of chromosomes, which determine the sex of a baby. In some areas of the world, people use prenatal sex selection to ensure mothers give birth to male children. The textbook cites an essay (Bhatia, 2010) about China’s one-child family policy, and information about the ethics of infanticide is located here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/ethics/abortion/medical/infanticide_1.shtml

In this assignment, students will write a five-paragraph essay in support of or in argument against prenatal sex selection. Instructors may randomly select students to take one side or the other in order to debate the issue in class after students complete the assignments.

  1. Search the reference section of the text to find the citation for Bhatia’s article.
  2. Search the university’s library database to download a copy of Bhatia’s article.
  3. Read the information on infanticide provided in the link above.
  4. Find additional resources to support or argue against prenatal sex selection.
  5. Write a 500- to 750-word five-paragraph essay.

More information on writing five-paragraph essays may be found here: http://www.studygs.net/fiveparag.htm

 

Web Exercise #2: Switched at Birth

LO 2.1: Describe the process of cell reproduction and patterns of genetic inheritance.

The textbook discusses the differences between monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins. MZ twins are the product of a single fertilized egg (zygote) dividing and becoming two genetically identical individuals, yet DZ twins are the product of two zygotes developing into individuals, who are not genetically identical. The purpose of this activity is to think about the lesson in this chapter and make connections to the lessons presented in Chapter 1.

Read the following New York Times article from July 2015:

“The Mixed Up Brothers of Bogota”

  1. Compare and contrast the similarities and differences in each set of twins raised together as DZ twins.
  2. Compare and contrast the similarities and differences of each set of MZ twins.
  3. Relating this topic to Chapter 1, think about the nature vs. nurture debate and Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological theory. How many similarities and differences in the brothers are explained by these theories?
  4. Relating this topic to Chapter 1, how has the context of development in the lives of each man changed?
  5. What do you think will be cognitive and social challenges each man will face?

 

Web Exercise #3: Genetic Disorders and Eugenics

LO 2.2: Define and provide examples of genetic disorders and chromosomal abnormalities.

As noted in the chapter, some disorders are the result of chromosomal abnormalities. Several factors contribute to genetic disorders, and many prenatal tests now reveal abnormalities. Parents at risk of having children with genetic disorders or who have children with genetic disorders now have the opportunity to receive genetic counseling and therapy for their children. However, these options only recently became available. The United States has a history of supporting a eugenics program, which influenced Hitler’s plot to create a superior human race. For more information, view this website:

http://historynewsnetwork.org/article/1796

  1. Discuss the history of the US eugenics program.
  2. Who financed it?
  3. How did it influence Hitler?
  4. Do you think eugenics programs no longer exist? In what ways do they?
  5. What are the pros and cons of the Human Genome Project?

 

Web Exercise #4: The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy

LO 2.4: Discuss the stages of prenatal development, stages of childbirth, and challenges for infants at risk.

This chapter introduces students to the process of conception and the three periods of prenatal development. In this assignment, students will watch the documentary The Ultimate Guide to Pregnancy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBIYwiktPsQ

As you watch the video, keep a list of questions you may have while watching it.

Answer the following questions:

1.   What are three things you learned from watching this video?

2.   What did you think was the most surprising fact in this video?

3.   What questions did you have while watching the video? Were they later answered in the video?

4.   What else do you want to know after watching this video?

 

Web Exercise #5: Teratogens in Your Life

LO 2.5: Identify the principles of teratology, types of teratogens, and ways that teratogens can be used to predict prenatal outcomes.

The textbook introduces students to teratogens and how they affect the developing baby. Often, students are left wondering if there are any teratogens that may affect them. The answer is yes. Watch the following video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PKZSo4V1As

After watching the video, go to your kitchen and look at the bottom of the plastic containers. How many are you using that are unsafe? Did you throw any away? Do you plan to? Why or why not?

 

Web Exercise #6: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder

LO 2.5: Identify the principles of teratology, types of teratogens, and ways that teratogens can be used to predict prenatal outcomes.

Chapter 2 introduces students to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, the causes of them, and the effects on the developing baby. Babies born with FAS and fetal alcohol effects face many developmental issues during life. Watch the following documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m7zfJCW9Yco

  1. What are some of the issues children with FAS and fetal alcohol effects face?
  2. What are three details that stood out to you while watching this documentary?
  3. What questions do you have after watching this video?