Genetics

Objectives:

1. Students will be able to use Punnett squares to predict the possible combinations of alleles and genetic outcomes.

2. Students will be able to interpret pedigrees to analyze genetic diseases and trait history within a family.

National Standards:

• Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS): 5-LS3-1: Use a model to represent the relationship between the needs of different plants or animals (including humans) and the places they live.

Materials:

• Whiteboard and markers
• Punnett square handouts
• Pedigree charts
• Pencils

Warm-up:

Ask students the following thought-provoking, open-ended question: "How do you think our genetic traits are passed down from our parents? What factors determine our inherited traits?"

Direct Instruction:

1. Begin the lesson by defining genetics and introducing the concept of Punnett squares.

2. Teach students how to set up and use Punnett squares to predict genetic outcomes by crossing alleles for specific traits.

3. Explain what pedigrees are and how they can be used to analyze genetic diseases and trait history in families.

4. Provide examples and walk students through how to interpret pedigrees.

Guided Practice:

1. Divide the students into pairs and give each pair a Punnett square handout.

2. Instruct students to choose a specific trait (e.g. eye color, hair color) and use the Punnett square to predict the possible outcomes of crossing two parents with different alleles.

3. Walk around the classroom to assist students and ensure they are correctly filling out the Punnett squares.

Independent Practice:

1. Assign students a project-based task where they have to create their own pedigree chart for a fictional family, including genetic diseases and inherited traits.

2. Encourage students to be creative and thorough in their analysis of the family's genetic history.

3. Provide students with the opportunity to present their pedigree charts to the class at the end of the lesson.

Closure:

For the closure activity, have students reflect on what they have learned by asking them to write a short paragraph on how Punnett squares and pedigrees can help us understand our genetic traits and history.

Assessment:

To assess students' understanding, have them complete a short quiz that includes questions on using Punnett squares and analyzing pedigrees.

Differentiation for students with special needs:

• Provide visual aids and models to support understanding of Punnett squares and pedigrees.
• Offer simplified versions of Punnett squares and pedigrees for students who may struggle with the concept.
• Allow students to work in small groups or pairs for extra support during guided practice and independent practice.