Glencoe Science Level Blue

Unit 1: Humans and Heredity

Patterns of traits in family tree

Introduction:

Can you roll your tongue? Are you the only “lefty” in your family? What color are your eyes compared to other members of your family? Answers to these types of questions can help you trace the patterns of heredity in your family. Some traits are dominant and others are recessive. Heredity is the passing of traits from parents to offspring. Which traits were passed to you?

Task:

In this project, students will become a genealogist looking for patterns of hereditary traits in their family tree. Then, they will use the information to create a chart of hereditary traits. They should include information about who expresses certain traits, including parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, brothers, and sisters. Note: Teachers should be aware that not all students may be able to complete this activity due to family circumstances and an alternate project should be made available.

Time:

One week to research family members’ traits and one class period to create and submit the hereditary chart for your family.

Example Chart (chart may vary depending on the type of traits and people chosen to investigate)
Type of TraitPerson 1Person 2Person 3Person 4Person 5Person 6Person 7
Eye Color       
Hair Color       
Ability to roll tongue       
Hitchhiker’s Thumb       
Widow’s Peak       

Resources:

What is Genealogy?
http://www.smgf.org/pages/genealogy.jspx

The Gene School – Heredity
http://library.thinkquest.org/19037/heredity.html

Kids Genetics
http://www.genetics.gsk.com/kids/heredity01.htm

Grading Rubric:

DescriptionRating
The student’s chart is exceptionally well organized, clear, and concise. The data show an understanding of the process involved. The chart is neat and presentable. 
The student’s chart is good. The accuracy of the data collected is satisfactory. The data show a basic understanding of the process involved in collecting the information. 
The student’s chart is not well organized and shows some problems related to the process involved in collecting the information. The chart is not done neatly. 
The work is very poorly done or has not been completed. 
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