Modeling Mendel's Pea Experiment

This modeling activity allows learners to discover for themselves what Mendel uncovered in his famous pea experiments. By modeling Mendel's pea experiments, learners will form their own explanations for the result of crossing a true-breeding round pea plant with a true-breeding wrinkled pea plant (the F1 generation) and for the results of allowing an F1 pea plant to self pollinate (the F2 generation). They will then compare their explanations to Mendel's own conclusions. This is an excellent introduction to Mendelian genetics which generates discussion and stimulates interest in Mendel's principles. Learners are encouraged to use the same observation and critical thinking skills that Mendel used. This activity can be instructor-led as a demonstration or conducted by groups of learners.