Hardy-Weinberg & deriva genetica

Before beginning the mathematical modeling exercise make sure each computer has access to an either on or offline spreadsheet software program.

Prepare one set of beads for each pair of students by counting out 50 of one color and then 50 of a second color, for a total of 100 beads.

Then, place the beads in a paper bag.

Students will also need extra beads to adjust the population makeup and these can be provided in a joint container for the whole class or instructors can make up additional sets for each student pair.

Next, create slips of paper and write on these the different experimental scenarios that will test violations of the Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium.

Then, create a second set of paper slips to determine which genetic drift scenario the students will test.

Finally, set out any additional beads needed for the experimental scenarios listed on the strips.

NOTE: An additional 50 beads in a third color will be needed for the mutation violation, and an extra set of 100 beads in the first two colors for the gene flow scenario. For simulating the founder effect with 10 alleles and natural disaster with 10 alleles scenarios, randomly select 100 beads from 10 different colors.