AP BIOLOGY Daily Agenda: 6.6 Gene Expression and Cell Specialization

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Today's Learning Objective(s):

§ Explain how the binding of transcription factors to promoter regions affects gene expression and/or the phenotype of the organism

§ Explain the connection between the regulation of gene expression and phenotypic differences in cells and organisms.

#	Tasks:
1	FRQ: Regulation of Gene Expression Complete the FRQ from AP Classroom. AFTER Finish Case Study - Eukaryotic Gene Regulation Use the website to complete the worksheet. Simulation Question / Guide
2	Epigenetics Model Modeling the impact of gene regulation on phenotypes in twins. Using the cards for eukaryotic gene expression, you are to sequence an event that causes one twin to be different than another. Use these event cards to sequence the events that lead to differences in phenotypes between identical twins. Discussion: Discuss how environmental influences and gene regulation contribute to the concept of nature versus nurture and the complexity of phenotypic expression in the model.
3	Notes > Gene Expression and Cell Specialization Let’s go over the impact of gene expression on phenotypes of organisms. Promoters are DNA sequences upstream of the transcription start site where RNA polymerase and transcription factors bind to initiate transcription .Negative regulatory molecules inhibit gene expression by binding to DNA and blocking transcription. Gene regulation results in differential gene expression and influences cell products and function. Certain small RNA molecules have roles in regulating gene expression.
4	Does gene expression lead to variation? – Argumentation You are to use understanding of gene regulation, genetics, and heredity to craft a CER. You and your team will need to be ready to explain your ideas to the class tomorrow.