Students will investigate what constitutes a healthy human through the lens of nutrition, genetics, and data analysis. By analyzing genetic karyotypes and nutritional intake, students will explore the interplay between genetics and lifestyle choices in maintaining health. They will apply mathematical skills to calculate and graph nutritional data, offering insights into dietary needs. Supplemental materials, such as worksheets and diagrams, will enhance understanding and provide tangible examples to support these analyses. This real-world project encourages students to critically examine factors contributing to wellness and apply their findings to everyday life.

Students will explore what constitutes a healthy human by analyzing their own and others’ genetic data, nutrition information, and calculating various health metrics. They will engage actively in graph creation, interpreting data patterns, and applying mathematical calculations to real-world scenarios of caloric and nutrient intake, supported by worksheets and diagrams. Through hands-on activities like the Super Taster test and the development of Nutrition Graph Portfolios, students will develop skills in data-driven decision making and enhance their understanding of the biological and nutritional factors that contribute to overall health. Supplemental materials, including examples, will reinforce their learning and assist in graphical data representation and analysis.

Students will produce a comprehensive Genetic & Karyotype Analysis report that aligns genetic information with nutritional needs, informed by a series of patient case studies. For deeper exploration, supplemental materials such as worksheets and diagrams will guide the analysis process. They will also compile a Nutrition Graph Portfolio, creating visual representations of their mathematical nutritional analyses, including daily caloric intake and micronutrient data. Beyond these deliverables, students will engage in an interactive Super Taster test to explore taste genetics, linking it to personal nutrition and culture.

To launch the project, have students engage with a dynamic food culture activity by sampling diverse food items from various cuisines and tracking their nutritional values using worksheets provided by the teacher. Students will document their findings in diagrams and examples that illustrate the caloric intake and nutrient profiles of each food sampled. Begin with a vibrant gallery walk of interactive nutrition stations, encouraging students to share and compare their insights in small groups, eliciting curiosity about personal and cultural dietary habits. This shared experience will spark interest and frame their subsequent exploration into the genetic and nutritional factors affecting health, encouraging thoughtful consideration of the essential question: “What makes for a healthy human in terms of daily caloric intake?”

During the "Healthy Human Expo," students will present their nutrition graph portfolios and genetic analyses using interactive displays and visual presentations. Visitors, including peers, teachers, and family members, can engage in the Super Taster test and explore the impact of diet on genetics and overall health. Supplemental materials such as detailed diagrams and example calculations will be available for attendees to understand the scientific approach. This event provides a platform for students to articulate their findings and initiate community dialogue on healthy living.