Teen Health Course 2

Introduction
Have you heard the expression, “tiny but mighty?” That is a perfect way to describe genes, the tiny pieces of information that you inherited from your parents. Genes influence many physical traits and conditions that affect your health. For example, if a particular disease runs in your family, you may have inherited a tendency to develop that disease. That’s why it is important to know your family medical history and make healthy choices that reduce your risks of hereditary diseases. On the Web site below, you will learn what genes are made of, how they work, and ways genes affect your health.

Link to explore The Gene Scene: http://ology.amnh.org/genetics/index.html

Instructions

• Start with the Genetic Journey and explore the Web site
• Read through the Find Out Why section and then click on the What Makes You You link, taking notes as you go
• When you are done, answer the questions below

1			Genes are pieces of DNA that are found in what part of the cells?
2			About how many genes do most cells in the body have?
3			What are two physical traits that can be inherited through genes?
4			Name two diseases that are affected by genetic sequence.
5			How can genetic studies affect the health of future generations?