Harry Potter Genetics

CLASS DESCRIPTION
This 12-week course will help students unlock the mysteries of genetics through case studies found in the Harry Potter series!

Genetically, what is the difference between a pure blood, a half blood, and a Muggle (how is Hermione a witch if her parents are not?)?
How do we determine the offspring of different variations of parents (will Ron and Hermione’s children all be wizards?)?
What about mutations (why do squibs—like Filch—have wizards for parents but are unable to do magic?)?
How do mixed species work in the wizarding world (Hagrid is one half-giant, Flitwick is ¼ goblin) and in the real world (ligers and zorses and mules, oh my!)?
Do genetics play a role in personality and talents (can the Sorting Hat detect your genetics so you are placed in the right house?)?
We will also unravel the double helix of DNA to see exactly how it works and how genes are created.

Students will have a thorough understanding of the four nucleotide bases, how DNA is replicated, and how mutations can occur during this process.

We will then spend a few weeks on evolutionary adaptations—how genetics plays a role in ensuring survival of the fittest and making sure the strongest genes are passed down. For this, we will study the various beasts of the wizarding world. What adaptations allow them to live in their environments? What if the environment were to change? What would that species need to do to survive? Students will embark on a multi-week project to create genetic profiles of the various beasts in the book, and then create a new magical beast through selective breeding of known species!

CLASS FORMAT
No live classes—view lessons on YOUR schedule. In general, expect 1.5-2.5 hours to work through the lesson plan each week, and an additional 2-5 hours working on assignments (it really depends what assignment your child chooses to do and how they manage their time). For classes with two levels, the material is the same for both—the depth of the assignments differs. Younger students should usually be placed in Level 1. Older students, or younger students who want more of a challenge, should be placed in Level 2.

Each lesson consists of a fully narrated PowerPoint presentation with images and videos to enhance the topics. Students will have access to our learning management system, Canvas, for viewing their lesson, printing worksheets, taking quizzes, viewing/submitting assignments, participating in discussions, and viewing grades/feedback. Read more details about class format.