Genetics and Inheritance

© Johanna Goodyear.
Patterns of inheritance, Mendelian genetics, variation of traits, pedigrees
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Dogs—A Model for Modern Genetics
Lesson
Students explore variation among dog breeds, and compare variation within domesticated dogs to variation within wolves and other canids.
Grades: 6-8 9-12 -
Genotyping a Mixed Breed Dog
Lesson
Students follow the case study of a “mutt,” whose breed identity is uncovered by its owners through commercial genotyping.
Grades: 6-8 9-12 -
Mapping A Mutation
Lesson
Students learn about the genetic code and how small substitutions within the code can lead to physical changes in individuals, and use authentic data to uncover the SNP responsible for long hair in dogs.
Grades: 6-8 9-12 -
Genotypes and Phenotypes
Lesson
Students learn about how a change in the nucleotide sequence affects phenotype. They predict the outcomes of crosses between short- and long-haired dachshunds.
Grades: 6-8 9-12 -
Categorizing Hair Types in Dogs
Lesson
Students explore phenotypic differences in hair types found in the coats of different dog breeds, as they begin to learn about complex traits.
Grades: 6-8 9-12 -
Genetic Testing and Designer Dogs
Lesson
Students learn about three examples where genetic mutations are related both to desirable characteristics and to harmful effects in certain dog breeds.
Grades: 6-8 9-12 -
Reebops: A “Model” Organism for Teaching Genetic Concepts
Lesson
Students create imaginary creatures, called “Reebops,” to explore the relationships between genes and inherited traits.
Grades: 3-5 6-8 9-12 -
X or Y: Does It Make a Difference?
Lesson
Students learn and describe the functional differences between X and Y chromosomes, and explain the significance of these differences in the human genome.
Grades: 9-12