Ep 12. Janet's Mystery Gene
- TV-Y
- 24 min
In season 2, episode 12 of The Magic School Bus Rides Again, titled "Janet's Mystery Gene," the class is introduced to their new classmate, Janet, who is very excited to join their class. However, she has a unique genetic trait that causes her to have sudden and unpredictable changes in appearance and behavior. The class decides to investigate her condition further in order to learn more about genetics.
Miss Frizzle takes her students on a journey through Janet's DNA, where they learn about different types of genes and how they can be expressed differently in different individuals. Along the way, they encounter some interesting characters, including a group of scientists who are studying the genetic makeup of different organisms.
As the class travels through Janet's DNA, they discover that her unique gene is actually a result of a mutation that occurred in one of her ancestors. They also learn about the role that mutations play in the evolution of different species over time.
As the class continues their journey, they encounter different challenges, such as a gene that causes large amounts of hair growth and a gene that causes extreme sensitivity to light. Through it all, they learn about the complexities of genetics and how it affects the way we look and behave.
In the end, the class learns that while genetics can be complex and unpredictable, it is ultimately what makes us who we are. Janet learns to embrace her unique genetic trait and the class gains a better understanding of the diversity that exists within the human population.
Overall, "Janet's Mystery Gene" is a fun and educational episode that teaches children about the basics of genetics in a way that is easy to understand and engaging. The show does an excellent job of combining science with storytelling, making it a great tool for educators and parents alike.