Cell Differentiation and Gene Expression
Q: If all human body cells have the same genome, how does this lead to so many different types of cells and cell products? A: The expression of specific genes regulates cell differentiation and cell functions. In this highly illustrative activity, students investigate and model gene expression as it relates to cell differentiation. They consider how various physiological events affect gene expression in each of four different cell types.
Details at a Glance
- 1-2 Days | 1-2 ~50 minute class periods
- 2 Activities
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 6 groups of 4 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Developed in partnership with SEPUP
Scientific Concepts
•The expression of specific genes regulates cell differentiation and cell functions.
•Somatic cells in an individual organism have the same genome, but selectively express the genes for production of characteristic proteins.
•The proteins that a cell produces determine that cell’s phenotype.
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
- All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 6 sets of 14 Cellular Event Cards
- 24 models of human chromosome 2
- 24 models of human chromosome 11
- 168 red paper clips
- 168 green paper clips
- 96 silver paper clips
- 12 red/blue pencils
- 6 re-sealable plastic bags
- 1 sticky note pad
- 1 set of three transparencies
- 28 Student Worksheet & Guides
- 1 Teacher’s Guide
- Not included and needed for instruction: A plain graphite pencil for each team.
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