Biology: Genetics Basics

Today's topic is genetics basics. Read the short text together, then have your child explain it back in their own words. The test of understanding is teaching someone else. Connect to a real-world example whenever possible.

• pencil
• paper

Predict: what will happen to an ice cube in your hand? Why? You just made a hypothesis.

1. 1

   Read these facts: Traits pass from parents to children through genes. Each parent gives one allele per gene. Dominant alleles mask recessive ones in the offspring's appearance. Q: What carries traits from parent to child?

   Parent tip: Read aloud first. Re-read if the question is hard.
2. 2

   Define 'dominant' allele.

   Parent tip: Encourage answers in complete sentences.

1. 1

   If both parents are Aa, what % of children show recessive trait?
2. 2

   What does 'aa' show?
3. 3

   Name one inherited trait.
4. 4

   Where might you see this idea in real life?
5. 5

   Connect this topic to something you've seen before.
6. 6

   Write one new thing you learned today.
7. 7

   Draw a picture of one idea from the passage and label it.
8. 8

   Ask one question you still have about this topic.
9. 9

   Where might you see this idea in real life?
10. 10

    Connect this topic to something you've seen before.

What is one question this lesson left you wondering about?