Meiosis: Understand how traits are inherited Virtual Lab

Join an IVF lab to help Martin and Charlotte have a baby. In this simulation, you will learn how traits are inherited and how meiosis contributes to genetic diversity in the population. You will use microscopy to study the process of cell division. You will discover the key differences between meiosis and mitosis and find out how these processes contribute to forming, growing and repairing the human body.

Meet Martin and Charlotte in the clinic

Meet Martin and Charlotte as they have an appointment to discuss IVF treatment and then join the clinic’s lab to understand meiosis before assisting in the IVF process. Learn how gametes are formed and how they fuse in fertilization.

Use microscopy to study meiosis

Prepare a sample of a lily anther for microscopy and study the phases of meiosis. Then compare meiosis and mitosis and learn how each of these processes contributes to human reproduction. You will complete interactive diagrams of both meiosis and mitosis to create a visual overview for yourself.

Follow the IVF process

Once you fully understand how gametes are formed through meisosis, you will follow the process of fertilization. Screen the resulting embryos to see both sets of parental chromosomes combine to a full set of pairs. Will you be able to help Martin and Charlotte have a healthy baby?