DP Biology (last assessment 2024)

3.3 Meiosis

Nature of science:
Making careful observations—meiosis was discovered by microscope examination of dividing germ-line cells. (1.8)

Understandings:

One diploid nucleus divides by meiosis to produce four haploid nuclei.
The halving of the chromosome number allows a sexual life cycle with fusion of gametes.
DNA is replicated before meiosis so that all chromosomes consist of two sister chromatids.
The early stages of meiosis involve pairing of homologous chromosomes and crossing over followed by condensation.
Orientation of pairs of homologous chromosomes prior to separation is random.
Separation of pairs of homologous chromosomes in the first division of meiosis halves the chromosome number.
Crossing over and random orientation promotes genetic variation.
Fusion of gametes from different parents promotes genetic variation.

Applications and skills:

Application: Non-disjunction can cause Down syndrome and other chromosome abnormalities.
Application: Studies showing age of parents influences chances of non-disjunction.
Application: Description of methods used to obtain cells for karyotype analysis e.g. chorionic villus sampling and amniocentesis and the associated risks.
Skill: Drawing diagrams to show the stages of meiosis resulting in the formation of four haploid cells.

Guidance:

Preparation of microscope slides showing meiosis is challenging and permanent slides should be available in case no cells in meiosis are visible in temporary mounts.
Drawings of the stages of meiosis do not need to include chiasmata.
The process of chiasmata formation need not be explained.

Theory of knowledge:

In 1922 the number of chromosomes counted in a human cell was 48. This remained the established number for 30 years, even though a review of photographic evidence from the time clearly showed that there were 46. For what reasons do existing beliefs carry a certain inertia?

Utilization:

An understanding of karyotypes has allowed diagnoses to be made for the purposes of genetic counselling.

Syllabus and cross-curricular links:
Biology
Topic 1.6 Cell division
Topic 10.1 Meiosis
Topic 11.4 Sexual reproduction

Aims:

Aim 8: Pre-natal screening for chromosome abnormalities gives an indication of the sex of the fetus and raises ethical issues over selective abortion of female fetuses in some countries.

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