Artificial Selection & Genetic Engineering Interactive Simulation | Life Science | Grades 6–8

This Interactive Simulation has grades 6–8 Middle School Life Science students run a hands-on classroom model of Artificial Selection & Genetic Engineering.

Driving question: "How do multi-generation artificial selection (selective breeding) and single-step genetic engineering differ in the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits?" Objective: Students will simulate three generations of selective breeding using polygenic trait allele cards to increase drought-resistance in corn, then model recombinant plasmid gene splicing and CRISPR editing to compare speed, trait predictability, and genetic divers

What's inside: objective and background, a materials list (1 deck of 32 Corn Chromosome Cards per…; 1 Selective Breeding Field Mat for…; 1 paper Bacterial Plasmid Vector Ring…; 1 pair of 'Restriction Enzyme / Cas9'…), an 8-step protocol, a data table, 4 analysis questions, and teacher notes.

Resource type: Interactive Simulation (.docx). Format: editable Microsoft Word lab handout with approximately 910 words (~5 pages).

Classroom use: a team investigation in a Middle School Life Science course. Grades 6–8.

Format note: These files are delivered in Microsoft Office formats (Word and/or PowerPoint). If you open a worksheet that includes tables in Apple Pages or another non-Microsoft app, table formatting may not display correctly. For best results, use Microsoft Word or PowerPoint (or upload the file to Google Docs). If you run into any formatting issues, contact us and we can send a PDF version.