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Synchronized Division

Topic

  • Cell Biology
  • Cell Cycle
  • Differentiation
  • Anatomy & Physiology
  • Reproduction & Development

Resource Type

  • Activities
  • Phenomenal Images

Level

High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IB
Saved By
21 Users
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Description

This activity explores an image of early embryonic cells, which serves as a phenomenon for learning about cell division and development.

The sand dollar embryo in this image is in an early stage of development called a blastula. Certain groups of cells in the blastula are synchronized to divide at the same time through mitosis. Some of these cells will eventually give rise to the sand dollar’s germ cells. Others will play important roles in various developmental processes, such as cell differentiation, the formation of the digestive system, and the development of the exoskeleton. Despite their different characteristics and roles, all of the sand dollar’s cells (except for eggs or sperm) are genetically identical due to mitosis.

The “Educator Materials” document includes background information and implementation suggestions for using the image as a phenomenon. The “Student Handout” includes the image and background information.

Image by George von Dassow, Oregon Institute for Marine Biology

Student Learning Targets

  • Examine images of phenomena, make observations, and ask questions.
  • Collaborate with peers on ideas, ask questions that require higher levels of reasoning, and develop deeper understanding of concepts.
  • Describe how animals go from being a single-celled zygote to becoming multicellular through mitosis.
  • Explain why differences among cell types within a multicellular organism are typically due to differences in gene expression, not genetic material, among cells.

Estimated Time

Within one 50-minute class period.

Key Terms

blastula, chromosome, echinoderm, embryo, mitosis, multicellularity, zygote

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Accessibility Level (WCAG compliance)

PDF files meet criteria.

Version History

Date Published 04.13.15

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS1-4; SEP1

AP Biology (2019)

IST-2.A, IST-2.D; SP3

IB Biology (2016)

1.6

Common Core (2010)

ELA.WHST.9–12.9

Vision and Change (2009)

CC3; DP1

Materials

Image (JPG) 436 KB
Educator Materials (PDF) 340 KB
Student Handout (PDF) 747 KB

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