Crossing Over

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The basics of evolution: workbook for teachers For thousands of years, people have asked the question "How did the world begin?" While many cultures and communities have a faith-based answer to this query, the theory of evolution supplies a science-based solution. The Crossing Over Workbook for Teachers is an illustrated, interactive publication designed to help educators deal with these changes in contemporary science education. Divided into two parts, the first supplements the work of GET teachers, and the second provides support for FET educators. From 2006, the subject 'Life Sciences' will replace the subject known as 'Biology' in the Further Education and Training (FET) curriculum. As part of the new and revised 'Life Sciences' school curriculum, teachers and learners will soon be required to attain a basic understanding of the theory of evolution. Preparation for this subject will begin in General Education and Training (GET) classrooms. The workbook focuses specifically on assisting educators build their own understanding of genes, the mechanisms of inheritance and selection the basics of evolution. Starting with cells and working through to genetic codes, the workbook uses diagrams, illustrations, text information and activity sheets to cover the content necessary for teaching the concept of evolution. Written in the form of an interactive text, educators are encouraged to form their own thoughts and make notes in the book as they work through it. While the activities are designed to develop personal understanding, some are also suitable for use with learners. The clearly-labelled diagrams can also be replicated for use in the classroom.

Introduction
Natural Sciences Curriculum
Using the workbook

Part 1: Understanding Genes and Inheritance

Contents
Overview
1. The cell
2. Measuring very small structures
3. The cell cycle
4. The chromosomes and cell development
5. Mitosis
6. Inheritance
7. Selection
8. General principles of reproduction
9. Sexual reproduction
Solutions to activities

Part 2: Introducing evolution

Contents
The Life Sciences curriculum
Overview
1. Charles Darwin and the voyage of The Beagle
2. Darwins theory of evolution
3. What evidence supports Darwins theory?
4. Present day evidence of evolution
5. Genetics and evolution
Resources
Solutions to activities

Crossing Over The Basics of Evolution by Dr Edith Dempster (University of Kwazulu-Natal) is compiled by the Society, Culture and Identity Research Programme of the HSRC in association with the Africa Genome Education Institute and funded by the Royal Netherlands Embassy. The book is a compilation of material developed for the Crossing Over Pilot Teacher Trainer Research Programme, initiated by the HSRC.