Episode 2: Define a gene

Biology Brain BitesSnack-sized short sharp study sessionsEpisode 2: Unit 4 Topic 1 Define a geneUnit 4: Heredity and continuity of life Topic 1: Genetics and heredity Describe the structure and function of DNA, genes and chromosomes in prokaryotes and eukaryotes, including: -helical structure, nucleotide composition (nitrogenous base + sugar + phosphate), complementary base pairing, hydrogen bonds-introns and exons, promoter region -homologous chromosomes (i.e. sister chromatids, centromeres, telomeres, gene loci, alleles), role of histones -circular chromosomes (i.e. prokaryotes, mitochondria, chloroplasts) and plasmids. QCAA Biology Senior SyllabusResearch has shown short micro sessions of 1-3.5 minutes are highly effective.Science behind microlearning has demonstrated it is effective. It reduces load on working memory.Promotes spaced repetition.Learners can maintain engagement for short sessions.It reduces learner anxiety and increases confidence.https://www.morecurricular.co.uk/post/the-science-behind-bite-sized-study-sessions-why-shorter-really-is-better Learning Goal:Define a gene.Identify what genes are made of. What is a gene?You’ve probably heard that genes determine your traits—but what actually is a gene?Genes are a sequence of DNA that provides the code to make a specific polypeptide or protein.Another reason I am distilling these episodes in single serve study sessions is because often when I ask students to describe a gene they have trouble distinguishing between DNA, genes and chromosomes. These terms can not be used interchangeably and getting a handle on the vocabulary associated with genetics is the first step to success.Think of DNA like a massive instruction manual. A gene is just one recipe inside that manual—telling your cells how to build a particular protein.In episode 1 we defined a protein and determined that they are absolutely essential to all organisms and come in all shapes and sizes.Genes are located on chromosomes, which are found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells. Humans have thousands of genes—each with a specific role.When we spoke about proteins we talked about the haemoglobin protein. Recall this is the protein that is in red blood cells and is tasked with carrying oxygen around our body. The haemoglobin protein is actually coded for by three separate genes. HBA1 and HBA2 genes code for the alpha globin genes and HBB codes for the beta-globin chain. 3 gene products come together to make a single haemoglobin protein.This example tells us that often a number of genes are needed to code for a single protein. The size of the protein will often determine whether multiple genes are required to store the instructions.Amoeba Sisters Links:DNA, Chromosomes, Genes, and Traits: An Intro to HeredityDNA, Chromosomes, Genes, and Traits HandoutHomework: Make a flash card for geneHand write the flash card - better for memory retentionOn one side write “gene”On the other side Write a definition of a geneWrite a summary of what you know about genesResearch and write some examples of genesMusic made using the app Suno; Logo made by Chat gpt