Misconceptions in Mitosis & Meiosis
Misconception 1
"The chromosome number is doubled in the prophase of mitosis and halved in the anaphase of mitosis." The Facts In anaphase, the spindle separates the two sister chromatids (not chromosomes) of each chromosome and moves them to opposite spindle poles. Overcoming Misconception 1 Comparing video simulations / animations of the phases to see the clear process. Clarifying terminology for students. |
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Misconception 2
"Interphase is the "resting phase" of mitosis."
The Facts
Interphase is actually a growth phase. In interphase, the cells grows and replicates its DNA before undergoing mitosis (M phase) and cytokinesis.
Overcoming Misconception 2
Demonstrate through multiple microscope slides that interphase is very critical – and busy – phase of cell cycle.
"Interphase is the "resting phase" of mitosis."
The Facts
Interphase is actually a growth phase. In interphase, the cells grows and replicates its DNA before undergoing mitosis (M phase) and cytokinesis.
Overcoming Misconception 2
Demonstrate through multiple microscope slides that interphase is very critical – and busy – phase of cell cycle.
Misconception 3
"Mitosis produces two new identical daughter cells." The Facts Mitosis divides the nucleus. Cell division occurs during cytokinesis. Overcoming Misconception 3: Referring back to the Cell Cycle following instruction on Mitosis to consolidate the entire process of cell division may remind students that mitosis is only one of three phases in cell division. Misconception 4
"Meiosis occurs in all cells." The Facts Meiosis only occurs in reproductive cells, either producing sperm or egg. Overcoming Misconception 4: The teacher should introduce meiosis instruction by discussing the difference between asexual reproduction and sexual reproduction. The teach could follow meiosis instruction with instruction on spermatogenesis and oogensis to further stress that this is a process that occurs in reproductive cells only. |
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Misconception 5
"The phases of mitosis and meiosis are discrete events."
The Facts
Make sure that students realize that the different phases are only identified to make it more convenient to study. In reality, the phases of mitosis and meiosis are continuous events.
Overcoming Misconception 5:
Using the "Flipbook Activity" shows the sequence of mitosis or meiosis as a continuous process. Alternatively, use videos that play the entire process without pauses to show the full process.
"The phases of mitosis and meiosis are discrete events."
The Facts
Make sure that students realize that the different phases are only identified to make it more convenient to study. In reality, the phases of mitosis and meiosis are continuous events.
Overcoming Misconception 5:
Using the "Flipbook Activity" shows the sequence of mitosis or meiosis as a continuous process. Alternatively, use videos that play the entire process without pauses to show the full process.
Tips to Avoid Misconceptions
- Identifying misconceptions early (i.e. Anticipation / Reaction Guide)
- Expert knowledge
- Various instructional strategies and methods of demonstrating concepts (i.e. videos, animations, understandable wording)
- Formative assessment opportunities: students submitting exit cards following a lesson or answering polleverywhere.com quiz