This workshop is based on a real sequence of experiments conducted on the fruitfly, Drosophila melanogaster. The idea is that you follow the same sequence of questions, experiments, deductions, and more refined questions following those deductions, that was followed by the original researchers.
First, you will be invited to read background notes on the biological problem. These notes are in pdf format, and you are advised to keep the pdf open on your computer so that its contents remain available to you as you follow the sequence of questions in the workshop. The questions will begin by testing your understanding of the system itself, and will then present new information and invite you to make deductions from it. Feedback is available after each answer you give.
This practical is about the growth of the imaginal discs of insects. You can read an introduction to imaginal discs, and a particular puzzle about how they grow, in this pdf (right-click and open in a new tab, so that you do not lose your place here).
When you are ready to move on, click here.
JAD, May 2015, updated Sept 2015, additional minor corrections Nov 2016.