LaSalle Springs Students Learn About Plant Genetics from a Scientist in the Field

During the first two months of the school year, nearly 30 LaSalle Springs Middle seventh-grade students in the AcLab of science teachers Nicole Regan and Danielle Dolan learned about the many components needed to successfully grow plants.

Part of their instruction came from across the pond, in the form of Skype sessions with a plant geneticist in the United Kingdom.

The teachers provided this opportunity for the students through “Skype a Scientist,” a free program that gives students the opportunity to connect with real scientists all over the globe.

The AcLab met twice a week. During one of the days, the LaSalle Springs students would Skype with the scientist to learn about plant DNA, DNA splicing and genetic modification. On the other day, the students would put their knowldge to work in the school's greenhouse.

“We matched with a plant geneticist because we wanted to fix up our greenhouse. It’s all about piquing curiosity,” Regan said. “Whether that comes into them wanting to become a plant geneticist or them asking deeper questions and doing further research into the questions they asked the scientist, it really showed that they’re opening their minds and ideas to get their wheels spinning.”

The students also got to learn about ongoing research projects into developing a type of “super banana” that is more resistant to disease and bruising than other varieties.

They also brainstormed potential names for this new banana and voted on a class winner – “Bodacious Banana” – that is now one of the name candidates for the new banana.

“It was pretty cool because (the scientist) is all the way over there and helping us learn about plant DNA and how it all works together,” said Darcie, one of the AcLab’s students. “I found it really interesting and I think it would be really cool to do in high school or as a career.”

"It was fun to grow and see how much soil and everything you need to get a good plant,” added Harper, another AcLab student. “And also, scientifically, if I’m ever studying anything like this, I would already know about it.”