Colon Cancer
Curriculum Link > Biology 12
Protein Synthesis
- Explain how mutations in DNA affect protein synthesis
What is the case study about?
In this case study, students will uncover a family’s genetic history and the family’s susceptibility to hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC.) Students will also discover the pattern of inheritance and the genotype of the disease as they complete the questions included with the case study.
Using the case study in the classroom
- This case study requires background knowledge of inheritance, genotypes, phenotypes and mutations.
- This case study can be used to enrich the Biology 12 curriculum. It can also be used with the IB (International Baccalaureate) and AP (Advanced Placement) Biology curricula.
- Students can complete the case study independently. This could be carried out as a classroom or homework activity.
- Students can also work in pairs to complete their case study.
- Note: If you are planning to have students complete other case studies found on this website, you can always assign student pairs different cases. This will allow student pairs to focus on their own case study and then learn about the other cases when they are presented by their peers.
- This case study could also be used as a preview activity for a larger project.
- For example, students may do a research project on HNPCC or another genetic disorder.
Additional Resources
- For additional information on dominant inheritance, check out our article called “Dominant Inheritance” found in the articles sections of this website.
