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TtGG Ancestry Testing Module

The Ancestry Testing module teaches students quantitative and data analysis skills through the engaging story of a high school student exploring ancestry DNA testing, while also incorporating bioethics and career exploration.

Module Description

The Ancestry Testing module aims to teach quantitative and data analysis skills in the context of genetics and bioinformatics. This module introduces students to the concept of ancestry DNA testing, using a narrative to frame the learning activities. Students will follow the fictional story of Sam, a high school student who wants an at-home ancestry DNA test for their 18th birthday.

In addition to the biology concepts introduced, students will use quantitative skills to calculate DNA variations in individuals and across populations. They will also interpret and explain results, such as associating individuals with geographic populations. Each part of the Ancestry Testing module also includes accompanying sections on bioethics and career exploration, which can be incorporated as part of the activity or used separately. In each Ethics section, students will connect social and cultural themes to the biology concepts in the activity through research, reflections, predictions, discussions, and/or debates. In each Careers section, students will perform self-directed exploration of jobs associated with the learning topics in the main activity.

Learning Objectives

  1. Navigate a cancer database and explore data from a cancer research study.
  2. Calculate and analyze the range and median age of diagnosis for individuals with potentially inherited gene variants.
  3. Discuss concepts such as germline inheritance, predisposition for cancer, and how genetics could influence age of diagnosis.
  4. Interpret data and graphs to illustrate how environmental factors contribute to cancer risk.
  5. Compare gene sequences to uncover if individuals carry a gene variant associated with hereditary skin cancer.
  6. Discuss the ethical implications of genetic testing for cancer risk.

NGSS Alignments

Disciplinary Core Ideas
  • LS3.A Inheritance of Traits
  • LS3.B Variation of Traits
Cross Cutting Concepts
  • Patterns
  • Cause and Effect
Science & Engineering Practices
  • Asking Questions and Defining Problems
  • Planning and Carrying Out Investigations
  • Analyzing and Interpreting Data
  • Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
  • Engaging in Argument from Evidence
  • Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information

Teacher Resources

Lesson Plan
Teacher Guide

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On Demand Webinar
Teacher Webinar

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Teacher Feedback

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Student Activites

Digital Download
Introduction to Ancestry Testing

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Digital Download
Sequence Comparison in Ancestry Testing (Paper)

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Digital Download
Sequence Comparison in Ancestry Testing (Spreadsheet)

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Supplemental Resources

What are DNA Variants?

Minute to Understanding: What are DNA variants?

Explore DNA variants and discover how mutations during DNA replication make each organism unique. Learn about their role in genetic variation and their potential impact on life.

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