In this activity, students build models of eukaryotic gene transcription using the Pitx1 gene, which is involved in the development of pelvic spines in stickleback fish.
Have students work in pairs or groups to complete this activity. Use question 1 as a post-assessment, comparing students’ answers to those for question 4 in the “Stalking the Genetic Basis of a Trait” activity (resource 3 in this playlist).
Estimated time: Two 50-minute class periods.