Lesson 7: The Cell Cycle, DNA Replication & Mitosis
Sequence the cell cycle and explain how semi-conservative DNA replication supports genetic continuity through mitosis.
60-minute plan: retrieval 5 · media 10 · sequence/replication task 25 · portfolio 15 · exit check 5
🎯 Ngā Whāinga Akoranga | Learning Intentions
The cell cycle phases (Interphase: G1, S phase DNA replication, G2; Mitosis: Prophase, Metaphase, Anaphase, Telophase; Cytokinesis).
Sequence the stages of mitosis, explain semi-conservative DNA replication, and relate cell division to growth, tissue repair, and asexual reproduction.
🎥 Media Anchor & Pedagogical Scaffold
Mitosis: The Amazing Cell Process that Uses Division to Multiply! (Older Video 2016)
Video: Amoeba Sisters (full runtime: 8m 27s). Use for the mitosis sequence; the supplied sheet provides the replication detail.
🧠 1. Before Viewing (Activate & Predict)
Why must DNA replicate with high fidelity before a cell divides into two identical daughter cells?
👁️ 2. During Viewing (Watch With a Job)
- Watch for: Sequence chromosome condensation, alignment, chromatid separation and nuclear re-formation.
- Watch for: Distinguish DNA replication, mitosis and cytokinesis.
- Watch for: Record how chromosome movement supports equivalent DNA distribution.
🗣️ 3. After Viewing & Kaiako Move (Process & Apply)
Kaiako move: Keep replication and chromosome separation distinct, then connect them causally.
Immediate task: Open Learner Evidence Pack · Sheet 7.
⚡ Whakaoho | Do Now: Cell Recall Challenge (5 mins)
Copy first, separate second. Explain why DNA replication must finish before mitosis begins, then predict the consequence if chromosome copies were incomplete.
📖 Activity 1: Core Process Investigation & Diagram Analysis (25 mins)
Sequence it (10 min). Put the supplied stage cards in order and justify each placement from an observable chromosome feature.
Replicate it (15 min). Use the DNA template to show complementary base pairing, antiparallel strands and the semi-conservative outcome. Explain why replication must precede mitosis.
Supplied inputs
- Learner Evidence Pack · Sheet 7 — cut-out stage cards and antiparallel DNA template
- Kaiako Guide · Lesson 7 — sequence and replication cues
📝 Activity 2: Portfolio evidence (15 mins)
Complete Portfolio Section 7. For the 5-minute exit check, define semi-conservative without using the word “half” on its own.
🏫 Kaiako Planning & Pedagogy Notes
Level 2 Biology focus: the 2026 specification expects semi-conservative replication, antiparallel DNA and complementary base pairing. Do not use whakapapa as a mitosis analogy. See Kaiako Guide · Lesson 7.
Paired concept in Mechanism & Exam Synthesis: DNA replication & mitosis →