Cell Cycle Stop Motion Movie

Course of Study Objectives:
Students will be able to:
A. Account for the distribution of genes and chromosomes from one generation to the next based on the results of mitosis and meiosis

B. Compare and contrast the function and products of meiosis and mitosis

Relevant NJCCCS Standards:
5.3.12.A.4
5.3.12.D.3

Procedure:
Introduction- Students will be introduded to the purpose of the cell cycle by a writing prompt. They will be asked to brainstorm the importance of having genetically identical cells and how genetically identical cells aride.

Students will read about the cell cycle and mitosis in their textbooks as a homework assignment and a short lecture will follow in class.

Finally, students will complete a sequencing activity for the cell cycle. The students will be given various pictures of the cell cycle and they will place the pictures in the correct sequence.

Movie -
Students will work together in groups to design and create a stop motion animation of the cell cycle. Before starting the movie, the students will need to decide what materials to use to represent the structures of the cell. Students will then draft their project on paper and delegate responsibilities among group members.

In class, the students will be taking pictures as they move their structures through the cell cycle. It is recommended that the students take approximately ten pictures per stage.

After the pictures are taken, the students will use computer software to put their pictures together in a complete animation of the cycle from start to finish.

Assessment -
Students will submit their movie for a summative assessment. The teacher will assess their knowledge on the cell cycle based on the use of appropriate materials to represent the cell structures, accurate movement (animation) of the cell structures, and a smooth animation (enough pictures were taken).