This hands-on activity serves as an introduction to the film The Birth and Death of Genes. Students investigate the importance of antifreeze proteins for icefish survival through one of two short labs.

The activity includes two short labs that allow students to explore a key adaptation introduced in the film: antifreeze proteins in the blood. By creating models icefish blood and exploring its properties, students are motivated to think about how having blood that does not freeze in Antarctic waters might be an important adaptation for certain fish. They then watch the film to learn more about this evolutionary process.