At Shiplake, we are proud of our inspirational teachers who champion innovative and contemporary teaching methods to create memorable lessons for our pupils. As well as making school enjoyable, it also enhances learning and retention. However, there is no doubt that tried and tested methods still have their place. This includes the use of tasty treats in the classroom!
This was the chosen technique for Science teacher Mr Nick Sexton when approaching a Year 9 Biology lesson on genetics. As part of the GCSE Biology course, pupils study how randomness and inheritance can produce a variety of offspring.
The class took the alleles (alternative forms of a gene) from some unusual parent organisms to code for a new life form never before seen to man. They named this creature the “Mallowpede”.
After sorting and pairing the alleles to ensure that there were no decoding errors, the boys set about creating the correct genotype and phenotype using their newly-gained knowledge of dominant and recessive genes. Once satisfied that they were ready to create new life, the pupils were given the raw materials (resisting the urge to eat them), to form the young mallowpedes. Depending on the parent alleles, this influenced the probability of the offspring's body being comprised of pink or white segments (marshmallows).
Unsure of what their creature was supposed to eat, the boys suggested giving chocolate cake a try. It appeared to be met with approval, and not just by the mallowpede.
