Activity

Lactose Intolerance: Fact or Fiction

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Around the world, about 2/3 of adult humans are lactose intolerant. Scholars work in small groups to discuss a few statements about lactose intolerance. Then, they watch a video on the topic and readdress each statement. Whole-class discussion allows for a better understanding of the evolution related to the enzyme lactase.

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CCSS: Designed
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Invite a doctor to speak to the class about lactose intolerance
  • Discuss the cultural differences in lactose intolerance, i.e. most people of European descent produce lactase while many other groups don't
Classroom Considerations
  • Relies on prior knowledge of heredity, natural selection, mutations, genetic variation, enzymes, and digestion
Pros
  • Provides links for further study of lactose, human evolution, and genetics
  • Offers discussion questions encouraging higher-level thinking skills
Cons
  • None