Patterns in the Distribution of Lactase Persistence

Topic
Resource Type
Level
High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege
Used In
1 BioInteractive Playlists
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Description

This activity extends concepts covered in the film Got Lactase? The Co-Evolution of Genes and Culture. Students analyze data from the scientific literature to draw conclusions about the geographic distribution of lactase persistence.

The activity begins with students watching the film. They then analyze data on the frequency of lactase persistence and the alleles associated with that trait. The activity involves using the data to draw pie charts, plot the pie charts on a world map, and identify patterns. The activity connects concepts in genetics with world geography and culture.

Student Learning Targets

  • Calculate frequencies and graph data in pie charts.

  • Interpret data from different research studies to infer the global distribution of a trait.

  • Make claims based on scientific evidence and use scientific reasoning to support the claims.
Details
Estimated Time
Two to three 50-minute class periods.
Key Terms

allele, enzyme, genotype, phenotype, population

Primary Literature

Refer to the “Educator Materials.”

Terms of Use

The resource is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International license. No rights are granted to use HHMI’s or BioInteractive’s names or logos independent from this Resource or in any derivative works.

Version History
Date Published
Date Updated
Curriculum Connections
NGSS (2013)

HS-LS4-3; SEP1, SEP4, SEP5, SEP6

AP Biology (2019)

EVO-1.C, EVO-1.D, EVO-1.H, EVO-1.J, EVO-1.K, EVO-1.O, EVO-3.A SYI-3.D; SP1, SP2, SP3, SP4, SP5, SP6

IB Biology (2016)

5.1, 5.2, 10.3

AP Environmental Science (2013)

II.C

IB Environmental Systems and Societies (2017)

3.2

Common Core (2010)

ELA.RST.9-12.7, ELA.WHST.9-12.1
Math.A-REI.3; MP2, MP3, MP6

Vision and Change (2009)

CC1; DP1, DP2

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