Lowery, Roger, Taylor, Neil, and Nathan, Subhashni (2000) Some techniques for teaching about the structure and function of chromosomes. Australian Science Teachers' Journal, 46 (1). pp. 47-53.

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Abstract

Almost all senior secondary level biology courses cover the topic of genetics. This is often introduced through a study of the cell nucleus and specifically genetic material contained in the nucleus. Chromosomes contain the DNA, the genetic code by which cells are able to make the many proteins. DNA does not contain the information for the production of any molecules except proteins. The easiest way to examine chromosomes is to look at cells during mitosis because during this time the chromosomes contract from their usual very long thin form to a shorter fatter shape suitable for the mechanical processes of nuclear division. Two microscopic laboratory techniques often used to observe the structure of chromosomes are: (i) examination of a squash of an onion root tip, since the meristem just behind the tip of roots is an area of cell division where growth takes place (ii) examination of the salivary glands of some fruitfly larvae, where chromosomes may be easily seen during interphase. These, so called, polytene chromosome copies are arranged side by side in bundles. Why this occurs is not known, but they are a very useful preparation for examination.

Item ID:	79932
Item Type:	Article (Scholarly Work)
ISSN:	0045-0855
Date Deposited:	17 Aug 2023 03:06
FoR Codes:	39 EDUCATION > 3903 Education systems > 390307 Teacher education and professional development of educators @ 40% 39 EDUCATION > 3903 Education systems > 390306 Secondary education @ 20% 39 EDUCATION > 3901 Curriculum and pedagogy > 390113 Science, technology and engineering curriculum and pedagogy @ 40%
SEO Codes:	16 EDUCATION AND TRAINING > 1603 Teaching and curriculum > 160302 Pedagogy @ 100%
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