Ploidy video tutorial
Ploidy_Worksheet.odt
1n, 2n, 1c, 2c... - Cell ploidy made simple
Overview
This set of resources was developed and employed numerous times to help students clarify the frequent confusion about cells' chromosome number and ploidy level. It uses simplified stick diagrams to represent chromosomes and circles or oval to represent cells and includes a short, low-tech video tutorial that delivers the information, a worksheet that students can use to practice and test their understanding of the video materials, a set of clicker questions that address the same points as the worksheet, and instructor's notes.
Ploidy resource set
Major learning objective:
Given a diagram representing the chromosomes of a cell, determine:
- the total number of chromosomes present;
- whether the chromosomes are replicated or unreplicated;
- the cell ploidy level (n, 2n, 3n, etc.)
- the amount of DNA expressed as number of genomes, c, in the cell.
How I have been using the resource set:
1. Before coming to class, students watch the video tutorial (as homework assignment).
2. Once they come to class, they receive a copy of the Ploidy Worksheet and are asked to complete individually (I usually give them 5 minutes).
3. When the time is up, students swap their worksheets with a classmate.
4. The instructor uses the slide presentation as a set of clicker questions, providing feedback, answering students' questions, and "revealing" the correct or best answer in each case. Throughout this process, students use the feedback and infromation provided by the instructor to "mark" their classmates' worksheets and include helpful feedback and comments.
5. Students return the worksheets to the classmates who filled them out.
Instructors' materials:
- editable clicker questions/slide deck
- worksheet answer key and clicker questions key
This set of resources includes:
1. A simple video introducing the concept of cell ploidy (preparation for the "Ploidy Worksheet");
2. The "Ploidy Worksheet", where learners have a chance to practice/test their understanding of the concept of ploidy;
3. The "Ploidy Clicker Questions Set", which instructors can use to a) assess learners' understanding of the concept of ploidy and b) as a way to give students feedback on their Ploidy Worksheet answers without having to mark all the worksheets;
4. (Only visible to instructors) Instructor's notes with editable files, comments, suggestions, etc.
Have fun!