Now that you know have modeled how meiosis works in general, let's consider the different types of gametes that we can form. In this challenge you will model meiotic cell division for cells with differing numbers of chromosomes and see how this variable affects the total number of DIFFERENT gametes produced.

Challenge #2:

In an effort to answer the question above you are going to model meiosis WITHOUT crossing over. For this model you will use the bead chromosome kits available in class, your write-on tables, and expo markers.

(A) Model meiosis for a cell where the haploid number is 1; the diploid number is 2. Labeling your chromosomes as M1, D1 might be helpful. How many DIFFERENT gametes could be formed? Document your quantitative answer.

(B) Model meiosis for a cell where the haploid number is 2; the diploid number is 4. How many DIFFERENT gametes could be formed? Did you see all of the options? You might sketch the result out. Labeling your chromosomes as M1, D1 might be helpful.

(C) Model meiosis for a cell where the haploid number is 3; the diploid number is 6. How many DIFFERENT gametes could be formed? Did you see all of the options? You might sketch the result out. Labeling your chromosomes as M1, D1 might be helpful.

(D) Can you find a mathematical pattern developing? If so, what is it? (Get your calculation checked.) If not … move on to a cell with the haploid number of 4… Once you have determined an equation that will help you determine the possible number of different gametes produced – determine the potential number of gametes you can produce as a human.

(E) Think reflectively about how meiosis actually works (not like it was modeled in this challenge) - is this number you calculated above in D accurate? Explain.