My genes and cow genes - new web resource explains genetics to kids

Which has more chromosomes - a potato, a cow or you?* And why do we care?

Genetics shape life in the world around us - the colour of our eyes, the shade of our hair, and the characteristics of animals and plants. Genetic research will have a big impact in agriculture, health and other areas so understanding this area of science is vital. A new free, online resource explains the challenging, expanding world of genetics to Australian primary school children.

Available through www.dairycrc.com, GenEd Web is an internet-based resource developed by the Dairy Cooperative Research Centre (CRC) that helps students understand biotechnology and related issues using examples from the dairy industry. It answers basic questions - what are genes? what is DNA? what are chromosomes and how many do we have?

GenEd Web was launched in September 2004 with an emphasis on the senior secondary biology and agricultural science curricula. The Dairy CRC has now extended GenEd Web for use by primary schools with links into the Years Five and Six curricula.

Now primary teachers have access to a simple, effective and fun resource to help students understand the basics of genetics. The website features a cartoon that reveals the secrets of genetics in a clear and simple way. An interactive game allows students to build robot ‘babies’, illustrating the concept that genes are inherited from parents. The site is designed to encourage students to work collaboratively.

Coupled to these interactive tools are comprehensive teaching and learning resources, including suggestions for a wide range of creative and stimulating activities. All resources are mapped to the new Victorian Essential Learnings (VELs).

The site was developed by education and curriculum experts, and primary teachers. It has been trialed with primary students and their teachers.

“The Dairy CRC has developed this education initiative to broaden general understanding about genetics and biotechnology,” said Professor Michael Holland, from the Monash Institute of Medical Research and the Dairy CRC’s Education Program Leader.

“GenEd Web provides teachers and students with fun and highly informative resources to explore genetics – the basis of who and what we are. Although it is targeted to Year 5 and 6 students, we believe it is a useful resource in lower secondary education, especially for students with learning difficulties.”

Visit GenEd Web at www.dairycrc.com

* The cow wins! Cows have 60 chromosomes, potatoes 48, and humans 46. But more chromosomes doesn’t mean bigger, smarter or better – it just means more chromosomes!