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Missouri - Science: High School Life Sciences
Learning Standards | Adopted: 2016
9-12.LS1: : From Molecules to Organisms: Structure and Processes
9-12.LS1.A: : Structure and Function
9-12.LS1.A.1: : Construct a model of how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins which carry out the essential functions of life through systems of specialized cells.
![Screenshot of Building DNA](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Building DNA
Construct a DNA molecule, examine its double-helix structure, and then go through the DNA replication process. Learn how each component fits into a DNA molecule, and see how a unique, self-replicating code can be created. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Genetic Engineering](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Genetic Engineering
Use genetic engineering techniques to create corn plants resistant to insect pests or tolerant of herbicides. Identify useful genes from bacteria, insert the desired gene into a corn plant, and then compare the modified plant to a control plant in a lab setting. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of RNA and Protein Synthesis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
RNA and Protein Synthesis
Go through the process of synthesizing proteins through RNA transcription and translation. Learn about the many steps involved in protein synthesis including: unzipping of DNA, formation of mRNA, attaching of mRNA to the ribosome, and linking of amino acids to form a protein. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Enzymes - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Enzymes - High School
As a veterinary technician, students learn about enzymes to help a dog that has been eating normally but is losing a lot of weight. Video Preview
9-12.LS1.A.2: : Develop and use a model to illustrate the hierarchical organization of interacting systems that provide specific functions within multicellular organisms.
![Screenshot of Cell Types](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Cell Types
Explore a wide variety of cells, from bacteria to human neurons, using a compound light microscope. Select a sample to study, then focus on the sample using the coarse and fine focus controls of the microscope. Compare the structures found in different cells, then perform tests to see if the sample is alive. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Circulatory System](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Circulatory System
Trace the path of blood through a beating heart and the network of blood vessels that supplies blood to the body. Take blood samples from different blood vessels to observe blood cells and measure the levels of oxygen, carbon dioxide, sugar, and urea. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Digestive System](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Digestive System
Digestion is a complex process, involving a wide variety of organs and chemicals that work together to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate wastes. But have you ever wondered what would happen if some of those organs were eliminated, or if the sequence was changed? Can the digestive system be improved? Find out by designing your own digestive system with the Digestive System Gizmo. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Senses](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Senses
Everything we know about the world comes through our senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell. In the Senses Gizmo, explore how stimuli are detected by specialized cells, transmitted through nerves, and processed in the brain. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Diffusion - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Diffusion - High School
As a physician assistant, students must learn about diffusion to save the life of a person poisoned by chlorine gas that was released into a small town following a train crash. Video Preview
![Screenshot of Enzymes - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Enzymes - High School
As a veterinary technician, students learn about enzymes to help a dog that has been eating normally but is losing a lot of weight. Video Preview
![Screenshot of Photosynthesis - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Photosynthesis - High School
As a marine biologist students learn about photosynthesis to help scientists in Australia determine why the coral in the Great Barrier Reef is bleaching. Video Preview
9-12.LS1.A.3: : Plan and conduct an investigation to provide evidence that feedback mechanisms maintain homeostasis.
![Screenshot of Homeostasis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Homeostasis
Control a simulated person running on a treadmill. Your challenge is to use clothing, exercise, and sweat to maintain a constant body temperature as air temperature goes up and down. Sweating (perspiration) can be controlled automatically by the Gizmo or, for a challenge, manually by the user. Don't forget to eat and drink! 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Human Homeostasis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Human Homeostasis
Adjust the levels of clothing, perspiration, and exercise to maintain a stable internal temperature as the external temperature changes. Water and blood sugar levels need to be replenished regularly, and fatigue occurs with heavy exercise. Severe hypothermia, heat stroke, or dehydration can result if internal stability is not maintained. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Paramecium Homeostasis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Paramecium Homeostasis
Observe how a paramecium maintains stable internal conditions in a changing aquatic environment. Water moves into the organism by osmosis, and is pumped out by the contractile vacuole. The concentration of solutes in the water will determine the rate of contractions in the paramecium. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS1.B: : Growth and Development of Organisms
9-12.LS1.B.1: : Develop and use models to communicate the role of mitosis, cellular division, and differentiation in producing and maintaining complex organisms.
![Screenshot of Cell Division](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Cell Division
Begin with a single cell and watch as mitosis and cell division occurs. The cells will go through the steps of interphase, prophase, metaphase, anaphase, telophase, and cytokinesis. The length of the cell cycle can be controlled, and data related to the number of cells present and their current phase can be recorded. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Embryo Development](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Embryo Development
Explore how a fertilized cell develops into an embryo, a fetus, and eventually an adult organism. Compare embryo development in different vertebrate species and try to guess which embryo belongs to each species. Use dyes to trace the differentiation of cells during early embryo development, from the zygote to the neurula. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Meiosis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Meiosis
Explore how sex cells are produced by the process of meiosis. Compare meiosis in male and female germ cells, and use crossovers to increase the number of possible gamete genotypes. Using meiosis and crossovers, create "designer" fruit fly offspring with desired trait combinations. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Meowsis - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Meowsis - High School
As a geneticist in an animal hospital, students learn about genetic changes in meiosis to determine the reason why a male cat can have calico fur coloring. Video Preview
9-12.LS1.C: : Organization for Matter and Energy Flow in Organisms
9-12.LS1.C.1: : Use a model to demonstrate how photosynthesis transforms light energy into stored chemical energy.
![Screenshot of Cell Energy Cycle](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Cell Energy Cycle
Explore the processes of photosynthesis and respiration that occur within plant and animal cells. The cyclical nature of the two processes can be constructed visually, and the simplified photosynthesis and respiration formulae can be balanced. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Photosynthesis Lab](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Photosynthesis Lab
Study photosynthesis in a variety of conditions. Oxygen production is used to measure the rate of photosynthesis. Light intensity, carbon dioxide levels, temperature, and wavelength of light can all be varied. Determine which conditions are ideal for photosynthesis, and understand how limiting factors affect oxygen production. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Photosynthesis - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Photosynthesis - High School
As a marine biologist students learn about photosynthesis to help scientists in Australia determine why the coral in the Great Barrier Reef is bleaching. Video Preview
9-12.LS1.C.2: : Use a model to demonstrate that cellular respiration is a chemical process whereby the bonds of molecules are broken and the bonds in new compounds are formed resulting in a net transfer of energy.
![Screenshot of Cell Energy Cycle](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Cell Energy Cycle
Explore the processes of photosynthesis and respiration that occur within plant and animal cells. The cyclical nature of the two processes can be constructed visually, and the simplified photosynthesis and respiration formulae can be balanced. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Cell Respiration - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Cell Respiration - High School
As a medical toxicologist, students learn about cell respiration to save the life of a CIA agent that has been poisoned. Video Preview
9-12.LS1.C.3: : Construct and revise an explanation based on evidence that organic macromolecules are primarily composed of six elements, where carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms may combine with nitrogen, sulfur, and phosphorus to form large carbon-based molecules.
![Screenshot of Dehydration Synthesis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Dehydration Synthesis
Build a glucose molecule, atom-by-atom, to learn about chemical bonds and the structure of glucose. Explore the processes of dehydration synthesis and hydrolysis in carbohydrate molecules. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS2: : Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics
9-12.LS2.A: : Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
9-12.LS2.A.1: : Explain how various biotic and abiotic factors affect the carrying capacity and biodiversity of an ecosystem using mathematical and/or computational representations.
![Screenshot of Food Chain](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Food Chain
In this ecosystem consisting of hawks, snakes, rabbits and grass, the population of each species can be studied as part of a food chain. Disease can be introduced for any species, and the number of animals can be increased or decreased at any time, just like in the real world. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Forest Ecosystem](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Forest Ecosystem
Observe and manipulate the populations of four creatures (trees, deer, bears, and mushrooms) in a forest. Investigate the feeding relationships (food web) in the forest. Determine which creatures are producers, consumers, and decomposers. Pictographs and line graphs show changes in populations over time. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Prairie Ecosystem](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Prairie Ecosystem
Observe the populations of grass, prairie dogs, ferrets and foxes in a prairie ecosystem. Investigate feeding relationships and determine the food chain. Bar graphs and line graphs show changes in populations over time. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Rabbit Population by Season](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Rabbit Population by Season
Observe the population of rabbits in an environment over many years. The land available to the rabbits and weather conditions can be adjusted to investigate the effects of urban sprawl and unusual weather on wildlife populations. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric
Study the thickness of birds' beaks over a five year period as you control the yearly rainfall on an isolated island. As the environmental conditions change, the species must adapt (a real-world consequence) to avoid extinction. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS2.B: : Cycles of Matter and Energy Transfer in Ecosystems
9-12.LS2.B.2: : Communicate the pattern of the cycling of matter and the flow of energy among trophic levels in an ecosystem.
![Screenshot of Food Chain](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Food Chain
In this ecosystem consisting of hawks, snakes, rabbits and grass, the population of each species can be studied as part of a food chain. Disease can be introduced for any species, and the number of animals can be increased or decreased at any time, just like in the real world. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Forest Ecosystem](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Forest Ecosystem
Observe and manipulate the populations of four creatures (trees, deer, bears, and mushrooms) in a forest. Investigate the feeding relationships (food web) in the forest. Determine which creatures are producers, consumers, and decomposers. Pictographs and line graphs show changes in populations over time. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Photosynthesis - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Photosynthesis - High School
As a marine biologist students learn about photosynthesis to help scientists in Australia determine why the coral in the Great Barrier Reef is bleaching. Video Preview
9-12.LS2.B.3: : Use a model that illustrates the roles of photosynthesis, cellular respiration, decomposition, and combustion to explain the cycling of carbon in its various forms among the biosphere, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere.
![Screenshot of Carbon Cycle](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Carbon Cycle
Follow the path of a carbon atom through the atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. Manipulate a simplified model to see how human activities and other factors affect the amount of atmospheric carbon today and in the future. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Cell Energy Cycle](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Cell Energy Cycle
Explore the processes of photosynthesis and respiration that occur within plant and animal cells. The cyclical nature of the two processes can be constructed visually, and the simplified photosynthesis and respiration formulae can be balanced. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Plants and Snails](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Plants and Snails
Study the production and use of gases by plants and animals. Measure the oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in a test tube containing snails and elodea (a type of plant) in both light and dark conditions. Learn about the interdependence of plants and animals. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Pond Ecosystem](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Pond Ecosystem
Measure the temperature and oxygen content of a pond over the course of a day. Then go fishing to see what types of fish live in the pond. Many different ponds can be investigated to determine the influence of time, temperature, and farms on oxygen levels. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS2.C: : Ecosystems Dynamics, Functioning and Resilience
9-12.LS2.C.1: : Evaluate the claims, evidence, and reasoning that the interactions in ecosystems maintain relatively consistent populations of species while conditions remain stable, but changing conditions may result in new ecosystem dynamics.
![Screenshot of Coral Reefs 1 - Abiotic Factors](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Coral Reefs 1 - Abiotic Factors
Explore the abiotic factors that affect Caribbean coral reefs. Many factors can be manipulated in this simplified reef model, including ocean temperature and pH, storm severity, and input of excess sediments and nutrients from logging, sewage, and agriculture. Click "Advance year" to see how the reef responds to these changes. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Coral Reefs 2 - Biotic Factors](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Coral Reefs 2 - Biotic Factors
In this followup to the Coral Reefs 1 - Abiotic Factors activity, investigate the impacts of fishing, disease, and invasive species on a model Caribbean coral reef. Many variables can be manipulated, included intensity of fishing, presence of black band and white band disease, and the presence of actual and potential invasive species. Click "Advance year" to see the impacts of these biotic changes. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Food Chain](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Food Chain
In this ecosystem consisting of hawks, snakes, rabbits and grass, the population of each species can be studied as part of a food chain. Disease can be introduced for any species, and the number of animals can be increased or decreased at any time, just like in the real world. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Forest Ecosystem](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Forest Ecosystem
Observe and manipulate the populations of four creatures (trees, deer, bears, and mushrooms) in a forest. Investigate the feeding relationships (food web) in the forest. Determine which creatures are producers, consumers, and decomposers. Pictographs and line graphs show changes in populations over time. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Prairie Ecosystem](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Prairie Ecosystem
Observe the populations of grass, prairie dogs, ferrets and foxes in a prairie ecosystem. Investigate feeding relationships and determine the food chain. Bar graphs and line graphs show changes in populations over time. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS2.C.2: : Design, evaluate, and/or refine solutions that positively impact the environment and biodiversity.
![Screenshot of GMOs and the Environment](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
GMOs and the Environment
In this follow-up to the Genetic Engineering Gizmo, explore how farmers can maximize yield while limiting ecosystem damage using genetically modified corn. Choose the corn type to plant and the amount of herbicide and insecticide to use, then measure corn yields and monitor wildlife populations and diversity. Observe the long-term effects of pollutants on a nearby stream ecosystem. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS3: : Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits
9-12.LS3.A: : Inheritance of Traits
9-12.LS3.A.1: : Develop and use models to clarify relationships about how DNA in the form of chromosomes is passed from parents to offspring through the processes of meiosis and fertilization in sexual reproduction.
![Screenshot of Building DNA](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Building DNA
Construct a DNA molecule, examine its double-helix structure, and then go through the DNA replication process. Learn how each component fits into a DNA molecule, and see how a unique, self-replicating code can be created. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of DNA Analysis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
DNA Analysis
Scan the DNA of frogs to produce DNA sequences. Use the DNA sequences to identify possible identical twins and to determine which sections of DNA code for skin color, eye color, and the presence or absence of spots. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution: Mutation and Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution: Mutation and Selection
Observe evolution in a fictional population of bugs. Set the background to any color, and see natural selection taking place. Inheritance of color occurs according to Mendel's laws and probability. Mutations occur at random, and probability of capture by predators is determined by the insect's camouflage. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Genetic Engineering](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Genetic Engineering
Use genetic engineering techniques to create corn plants resistant to insect pests or tolerant of herbicides. Identify useful genes from bacteria, insert the desired gene into a corn plant, and then compare the modified plant to a control plant in a lab setting. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Human Karyotyping](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Human Karyotyping
Sort and pair the images of human chromosomes obtained in a scan. Find differences in the scans of the various patients to find out specific things that can cause disease, as well as determining the sex of the person. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Meiosis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Meiosis
Explore how sex cells are produced by the process of meiosis. Compare meiosis in male and female germ cells, and use crossovers to increase the number of possible gamete genotypes. Using meiosis and crossovers, create "designer" fruit fly offspring with desired trait combinations. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Meowsis - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Meowsis - High School
As a geneticist in an animal hospital, students learn about genetic changes in meiosis to determine the reason why a male cat can have calico fur coloring. Video Preview
9-12.LS3.B: : Variation of Traits
9-12.LS3.B.3: : Make and defend a claim that inheritable genetic variations may result from: (1) new genetic combinations through meiosis, (2) mutations occurring during replication, and/or (3) mutations caused by environmental factors.
![Screenshot of Building DNA](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Building DNA
Construct a DNA molecule, examine its double-helix structure, and then go through the DNA replication process. Learn how each component fits into a DNA molecule, and see how a unique, self-replicating code can be created. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution: Mutation and Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution: Mutation and Selection
Observe evolution in a fictional population of bugs. Set the background to any color, and see natural selection taking place. Inheritance of color occurs according to Mendel's laws and probability. Mutations occur at random, and probability of capture by predators is determined by the insect's camouflage. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Meiosis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Meiosis
Explore how sex cells are produced by the process of meiosis. Compare meiosis in male and female germ cells, and use crossovers to increase the number of possible gamete genotypes. Using meiosis and crossovers, create "designer" fruit fly offspring with desired trait combinations. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution - High School
Working as a CDC researcher, students investigate an outbreak of multi-drug resistant bacterial infections and determine how evolution was involved by tracing the source and cause of the outbreak. Video Preview
![Screenshot of Meowsis - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Meowsis - High School
As a geneticist in an animal hospital, students learn about genetic changes in meiosis to determine the reason why a male cat can have calico fur coloring. Video Preview
9-12.LS3.B.4: : Apply concepts of statistics and probability to explain the variation and distribution of expressed traits in a population.
![Screenshot of Chicken Genetics](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Chicken Genetics
Breed "pure" chickens with known genotypes that exhibit specific feather colors, and learn how traits are passed on via codominant genes. Chickens can be stored in cages for future breeding, and the statistics of feather color are reported every time the chickens breed. Punnett squares can be used to predict results. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Fast Plants<sup>®</sup> 1 - Growth and Genetics](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Fast Plants® 1 - Growth and Genetics
Grow Wisconsin Fast Plants® in a simulated lab environment. Explore the life cycles of these plants and how their growth is influenced by light, water, and crowding. Practice pollinating the plants using bee sticks, then observe the traits of the offspring plants. Use Punnett squares to model the inheritance of genes for stem color and leaf color for these plants. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Fast Plants<sup>®</sup> 2 - Mystery Parent](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Fast Plants® 2 - Mystery Parent
In this follow-up to Fast Plants® 1 - Growth and Genetics, continue to explore inheritance of traits in Wisconsin Fast Plants. Infer the genotype of a "mystery P2 parent" of a set of Fast Plants based on the traits of the P1, F1, and F2 plants. Then create designer Fast Plants by selectively breeding plants with desired traits. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
Set the initial percentages of three types of parrots in a population and track changes in genotype and allele frequency through several generations. Analyze population data to develop an understanding of the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Determine how initial allele percentages will affect the equilibrium state of the population. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Microevolution](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Microevolution
Observe the effect of predators on a population of parrots with three possible genotypes. The initial percentages and fitness levels of each genotype can be set. Determine how initial fitness levels affect genotype and allele frequencies through several generations. Compare scenarios in which a dominant allele is deleterious, a recessive allele is deleterious, and the heterozygous individual is fittest. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Mouse Genetics (One Trait)](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Mouse Genetics (One Trait)
Breed "pure" mice with known genotypes that exhibit specific fur colors, and learn how traits are passed on via dominant and recessive genes. Mice can be stored in cages for future breeding, and the statistics of fur color are reported every time a pair of mice breed. Punnett squares can be used to predict results. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Mouse Genetics (Two Traits)](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Mouse Genetics (Two Traits)
Breed "pure" mice with known genotypes that exhibit specific fur and eye colors, and learn how traits are passed on via dominant and recessive genes. Mice can be stored in cages for future breeding, and the statistics of fur and eye color are reported every time a pair of mice breed. Punnett squares can be used to predict results. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS4: : Biological Evolution; Unity and Diversity
9-12.LS4.A: : Evidence of Common Ancestry and Diversity
9-12.LS4.A.1: : Communicate scientific information that common ancestry and biological evolution are supported by multiple lines of empirical evidence.
![Screenshot of Cladograms](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Cladograms
Based on the similarities and differences between different organisms, create branching diagrams called cladograms to show how they are related. Use both morphological data (physical traits) and molecular data to create the simplest and most likely cladograms. Five different sets of organisms are available. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Embryo Development](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Embryo Development
Explore how a fertilized cell develops into an embryo, a fetus, and eventually an adult organism. Compare embryo development in different vertebrate species and try to guess which embryo belongs to each species. Use dyes to trace the differentiation of cells during early embryo development, from the zygote to the neurula. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution: Natural and Artificial Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution: Natural and Artificial Selection
Observe evolution in a fictional population of bugs. Set the background to any color, and see natural selection taking place. Compare the processes of natural and artificial selection. Manipulate the mutation rate, and determine how mutation rate affects adaptation and evolution. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Human Evolution - Skull Analysis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Human Evolution - Skull Analysis
Compare the skulls of a variety of significant human ancestors, or hominids. Use available tools to measure lengths, areas, and angles of important features. Each skull can be viewed from the front, side, or from below. Additional information regarding the age, location, and discoverer of each skull can be displayed. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Natural Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Natural Selection
You are a bird hunting moths (both dark and light) that live on trees. As you capture the moths most easily visible against the tree surface, the moth populations change, illustrating the effects of natural selection. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of RNA and Protein Synthesis](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
RNA and Protein Synthesis
Go through the process of synthesizing proteins through RNA transcription and translation. Learn about the many steps involved in protein synthesis including: unzipping of DNA, formation of mRNA, attaching of mRNA to the ribosome, and linking of amino acids to form a protein. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric
Study the thickness of birds' beaks over a five year period as you control the yearly rainfall on an isolated island. As the environmental conditions change, the species must adapt (a real-world consequence) to avoid extinction. 5 Minute Preview
9-12.LS4.B: : Natural Selection
9-12.LS4.B.1: : Construct an explanation based on evidence that the process of evolution primarily results from four factors: (1) the potential for a species to increase in number, (2) the heritable genetic variation of individuals in a species due to mutation and sexual reproduction, (3) competition for limited resources, and (4) the proliferation of those organisms that are better able to survive and reproduce in the environment.
![Screenshot of Evolution: Mutation and Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution: Mutation and Selection
Observe evolution in a fictional population of bugs. Set the background to any color, and see natural selection taking place. Inheritance of color occurs according to Mendel's laws and probability. Mutations occur at random, and probability of capture by predators is determined by the insect's camouflage. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Natural Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Natural Selection
You are a bird hunting moths (both dark and light) that live on trees. As you capture the moths most easily visible against the tree surface, the moth populations change, illustrating the effects of natural selection. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric
Study the thickness of birds' beaks over a five year period as you control the yearly rainfall on an isolated island. As the environmental conditions change, the species must adapt (a real-world consequence) to avoid extinction. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution - High School
Working as a CDC researcher, students investigate an outbreak of multi-drug resistant bacterial infections and determine how evolution was involved by tracing the source and cause of the outbreak. Video Preview
9-12.LS4.B.2: : Apply concepts of statistics and probability to support explanations that organisms with an advantageous heritable trait tend to increase in proportion to organisms lacking this trait.
![Screenshot of Evolution: Mutation and Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution: Mutation and Selection
Observe evolution in a fictional population of bugs. Set the background to any color, and see natural selection taking place. Inheritance of color occurs according to Mendel's laws and probability. Mutations occur at random, and probability of capture by predators is determined by the insect's camouflage. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Microevolution](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Microevolution
Observe the effect of predators on a population of parrots with three possible genotypes. The initial percentages and fitness levels of each genotype can be set. Determine how initial fitness levels affect genotype and allele frequencies through several generations. Compare scenarios in which a dominant allele is deleterious, a recessive allele is deleterious, and the heterozygous individual is fittest. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric
Study the thickness of birds' beaks over a five year period as you control the yearly rainfall on an isolated island. As the environmental conditions change, the species must adapt (a real-world consequence) to avoid extinction. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution - High School
Working as a CDC researcher, students investigate an outbreak of multi-drug resistant bacterial infections and determine how evolution was involved by tracing the source and cause of the outbreak. Video Preview
9-12.LS4.C: : Adaptation
9-12.LS4.C.1: : Construct an explanation based on evidence for how natural selection leads to adaptation of populations.
![Screenshot of Evolution: Mutation and Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution: Mutation and Selection
Observe evolution in a fictional population of bugs. Set the background to any color, and see natural selection taking place. Inheritance of color occurs according to Mendel's laws and probability. Mutations occur at random, and probability of capture by predators is determined by the insect's camouflage. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Microevolution](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Microevolution
Observe the effect of predators on a population of parrots with three possible genotypes. The initial percentages and fitness levels of each genotype can be set. Determine how initial fitness levels affect genotype and allele frequencies through several generations. Compare scenarios in which a dominant allele is deleterious, a recessive allele is deleterious, and the heterozygous individual is fittest. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Natural Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Natural Selection
You are a bird hunting moths (both dark and light) that live on trees. As you capture the moths most easily visible against the tree surface, the moth populations change, illustrating the effects of natural selection. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution - High School
Working as a CDC researcher, students investigate an outbreak of multi-drug resistant bacterial infections and determine how evolution was involved by tracing the source and cause of the outbreak. Video Preview
9-12.LS4.C.2: : Evaluate the evidence supporting claims that changes in environmental conditions may result in: (1) increases in the number of individuals of some species, (2) the emergence of new species over time, and (3) the extinction of other species.
![Screenshot of Coral Reefs 1 - Abiotic Factors](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Coral Reefs 1 - Abiotic Factors
Explore the abiotic factors that affect Caribbean coral reefs. Many factors can be manipulated in this simplified reef model, including ocean temperature and pH, storm severity, and input of excess sediments and nutrients from logging, sewage, and agriculture. Click "Advance year" to see how the reef responds to these changes. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Coral Reefs 2 - Biotic Factors](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Coral Reefs 2 - Biotic Factors
In this followup to the Coral Reefs 1 - Abiotic Factors activity, investigate the impacts of fishing, disease, and invasive species on a model Caribbean coral reef. Many variables can be manipulated, included intensity of fishing, presence of black band and white band disease, and the presence of actual and potential invasive species. Click "Advance year" to see the impacts of these biotic changes. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Natural Selection](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Natural Selection
You are a bird hunting moths (both dark and light) that live on trees. As you capture the moths most easily visible against the tree surface, the moth populations change, illustrating the effects of natural selection. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Rabbit Population by Season](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Rabbit Population by Season
Observe the population of rabbits in an environment over many years. The land available to the rabbits and weather conditions can be adjusted to investigate the effects of urban sprawl and unusual weather on wildlife populations. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Rainfall and Bird Beaks - Metric
Study the thickness of birds' beaks over a five year period as you control the yearly rainfall on an isolated island. As the environmental conditions change, the species must adapt (a real-world consequence) to avoid extinction. 5 Minute Preview
![Screenshot of Evolution - High School](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
Evolution - High School
Working as a CDC researcher, students investigate an outbreak of multi-drug resistant bacterial infections and determine how evolution was involved by tracing the source and cause of the outbreak. Video Preview
9-12.LS4.C.3: : Create or revise a model to test a solution to mitigate adverse impacts of human activity on biodiversity.
![Screenshot of GMOs and the Environment](/Assets/img/blank.gif)
GMOs and the Environment
In this follow-up to the Genetic Engineering Gizmo, explore how farmers can maximize yield while limiting ecosystem damage using genetically modified corn. Choose the corn type to plant and the amount of herbicide and insecticide to use, then measure corn yields and monitor wildlife populations and diversity. Observe the long-term effects of pollutants on a nearby stream ecosystem. 5 Minute Preview
Correlation last revised: 9/6/2022
About STEM Cases
Students assume the role of a scientist trying to solve a real world problem. They use scientific practices to collect and analyze data, and form and test a hypothesis as they solve the problems.
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Each STEM Case uses realtime reporting to show live student results.
Introduction to the Heatmap
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STEM Cases take between 30-90 minutes for students to complete, depending on the case.
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Student progress is automatically saved so that STEM Cases can be completed over multiple sessions.
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Multiple grade-appropriate versions, or levels, exist for each STEM Case.
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Each STEM Case level has an associated Handbook. These are interactive guides that focus on the science concepts underlying the case.
How Free Gizmos Work
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Start teaching with 20-40 Free Gizmos. See the full list.
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Access lesson materials for Free Gizmos including teacher guides, lesson plans, and more.
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All other Gizmos are limited to a 5 Minute Preview and can only be used for 5 minutes a day.
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Free Gizmos change each semester. The new collection will be available January 1 and July 1.
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