COVID-19

For the Genetic Processes Unit in Biology 11, students explored multiple aspects of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19. First, they began with a ‘Know, Wonder, Learn’ brainstorming activity.  Based on their inquiry questions, they explored related concepts using videos, worksheets, and discussions.  For example, they learned how SARS-CoV-2 infects and replicates inside human cells. They analysed the viral genome to discover how the virus evolves over time due to mutation and how the variants and strains are established. Furthermore, they explored how the virus is detected in an infected human and how different types of vaccines trigger an immune response. Then, the students researched the career field of epidemiology and interpreted a model of herd immunity within the population of Ottawa. Finally, they constructed a concept map of societal needs related to COVID-19.