Almoite, Andrea Joie Z.

STEM 12-B

LESSON 11: Introduction to Reproduction Assignment

1. Differences between Asexual and Sexual Reproduction:

• Asexual Reproduction:
• Involves only one parent organism.
• Offspring are genetically identical to the parent (clones).
• Common methods include binary fission, budding, fragmentation, and
spore formation.
• Examples: bacteria reproducing by binary fission, yeast budding, and plants
reproducing through runners or bulbs.
• Sexual Reproduction:
• Requires two parent organisms (usually male and female).
• Offspring inherit genetic material from both parents, leading to genetic
variation.
• Involves processes like meiosis, fertilization, and gamete production.
• Examples: humans reproducing through sexual intercourse, animals mating
and producing offspring.
2. Advantages and Disadvantages of Asexual and Sexual Reproduction:
• Asexual Reproduction:
• Advantages:
• Efficient in terms of energy and resources since only one parent is
involved.
• Rapid population growth as there is no need to find a mate.
• Well-suited for stable environments.
• Disadvantages:
• Lack of genetic diversity can be detrimental if conditions change.
• Limited ability to adapt to new environments or resist diseases.
 • Vulnerable to extinction if environmental conditions become
unfavorable.
• Sexual Reproduction:
• Advantages:
• Introduces genetic variation, enhancing the population's ability to
adapt to changing environments.
• Allows for the elimination of harmful mutations through
recombination.
• Promotes the evolution of species by generating new genetic
combinations.
• Disadvantages:
• Requires more time, energy, and resources to find and court a mate.
• Risk of genetic diseases or disorders being passed on.
• Slower population growth compared to asexual reproduction.
These differences and considerations play significant roles in the evolutionary strategies of
different organisms and their abilities to thrive in various ecological niches.

LESSON 12: Compare and Contrast Process in Plants and Animals: Reproduction and
Development Assignment

Part I
1. When Human Life Begins:
a) The beginning of human life is a complex and debated topic. Some argue that life begins
at conception when the sperm fertilizes the egg and forms a zygote. Others consider
different developmental milestones, such as implantation in the uterus or the development
of a functioning nervous system, as the starting point of human life.
b) A baby is generally considered to be alive and viable once it is born and capable of
surviving outside the womb.
2. Whether a single cell like a sperm or egg is considered human depends on one's definition
of human life. Biologically, these cells contain human DNA but are not considered
individual human beings. Similarly, other single cells from our body like red blood cells or
liver cells are human cells but not considered individual human organisms. The distinction
 lies in the potential for growth and development into a complete, functioning human being,
which a single cell lacks.
3. Stages of Prenatal Development:
I. Fertilization: Occurs when a sperm cell fuses with an egg cell, forming
a zygote.
II. Cleavage: The zygote undergoes rapid cell divisions called cleavage,
forming a cluster of cells called a morula.
III. Morula and Blastocyst: The morula develops into a blastocyst, which
consists of an inner cell mass that will become the embryo and an outer
layer that will form the placenta.
IV. Implantation: The blastocyst attaches to the uterine wall and begins to
receive nutrients from the mother.
V. Gestation: The period of development from implantation to birth, during
which the embryo develops into a fetus and undergoes organogenesis
and growth.
4. The most important prenatal phase of development is often considered to be the embryonic
stage (from fertilization to the end of the eighth week). This is when the major organs and
systems of the body begin to form, and exposure to harmful substances or environmental
factors during this time can have significant and lasting impacts on the developing fetus.
5. Factors Affecting Prenatal Development:
• Genetic factors: Inherited traits and genetic disorders.
• Maternal health: Nutrition, maternal age, lifestyle choices, and pre-existing medical
conditions.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to toxins, drugs, alcohol, radiation, infections, and
stress.
• Placental health: Proper functioning of the placenta is crucial for nutrient and
oxygen exchange.
6. Understanding the stages of development is essential for healthcare professionals to
monitor fetal growth and detect any abnormalities or developmental issues early on. It also
helps expectant parents make informed decisions regarding prenatal care and lifestyle
choices that can impact fetal development.
7. I wouldn't use contraception personally, but various options are available, each with its
advantages and disadvantages. Some common types include:
• Barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms): Easy to use, protect against sexually
transmitted infections (STIs), but may have a higher failure rate.
• Hormonal methods (birth control pills, patches, injections): Highly effective when
used correctly, but may have side effects and require regular use.
 • Intrauterine devices (IUDs): Long-lasting, reversible, and highly effective, but may
cause discomfort during insertion and can lead to complications.
• Sterilization (tubal ligation, vasectomy): Permanent methods of contraception, but
not easily reversible.
8. Differentiating Human Male and Female Reproductive Organs:
• Male reproductive organs include the testes, which produce sperm, and the penis,
which delivers sperm to the female reproductive tract during intercourse.
• Female reproductive organs include the ovaries, which produce eggs, and the
uterus, where fertilized eggs can implant and develop into a fetus. The vagina serves
as the birth canal and the passage for menstrual flow.
9. Whether someone would undergo a transgender operation is a deeply personal decision.
Risks can include surgical complications, reactions to anesthesia, and psychological
adjustments. Benefits may include alignment with one's gender identity, improved mental
well-being, and relief from gender dysphoria. It's essential for individuals considering such
procedures to consult with healthcare professionals and receive comprehensive
information about potential risks and benefits.

Part II
First Trimester (Weeks 1-13):
1. Weeks 1-2:
• Fertilization and formation of the zygote.
• Implantation into the uterine wall.
• Beginning of embryonic development.
2. Weeks 3-4:
• Gastrulation and formation of three germ layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm).
• Development of neural tube (precursor to brain and spinal cord).
• Basic heart structures begin forming.
3. Weeks 5-6:
• Brain development intensifies.
• Limb buds emerge, start forming fingers and toes.
• Facial features (eyes, nose, mouth) start taking shape.
 4. Weeks 7-8:
• Organogenesis progresses, including the development of major organs like lungs,
liver, and kidneys.
• External genitalia begin to differentiate.
• Limb growth continues.
5. Weeks 9-10:
• Rapid growth and refinement of organs.
• Bones and cartilage formation; skeleton begins to ossify.
• External features become more distinct.
6. Weeks 11-13:
• Fetus is now called an embryo.
• Facial features become more refined.
• Major organs are present but still developing.
Second Trimester (Weeks 14-26):
7. Weeks 14-16:
• Rapid growth and maturation of organs continue.
• Movement is felt by the mother; fetal movements become coordinated.
• Facial expressions develop.
8. Weeks 17-20:
• Vernix caseosa (protective skin coating) and lanugo (fine hair) appear.
• Fetal heartbeat audible with a stethoscope.
• Gender often identifiable via ultrasound.
9. Weeks 21-24:
• Eyebrows, eyelashes, and hair continue to grow.
• Lung development progresses; surfactant production begins.
• Fetus can hear and respond to external sounds.
10. Weeks 25-26:
• Fetus gains body fat.
• Eyes open; retinas develop.
 • Ability to survive outside the womb increases with medical support.
Third Trimester (Weeks 27-41):
11. Weeks 27-30:
• Rapid weight gain; body fat increases significantly.
• Brain development continues; neuronal connections increase.
• Fetus practices breathing movements; lungs mature further.
12. Weeks 31-34:
• Bones harden; skull remains flexible for birth.
• Movement patterns become more coordinated.
• Immune system matures; antibodies transferred from mother.
13. Weeks 35-38:
• Fetal growth slows as space in the uterus decreases.
• Organs fully developed but continue maturing.
• Head engages in the pelvis, preparing for birth.
14. Weeks 39-41:
• Fetus is considered full-term.
• Continued growth, especially in weight and size.
• Organs and systems are ready for life outside the womb.
Throughout pregnancy, regular prenatal care and monitoring are essential to ensure the health and
development of both the fetus and the mother.