Genetics Guiding Question: Why Are Genes Inherited in a Predictable Pattern?

Come up with a set of rules to explain the patterns you see in the two simulations about stem color and pea seed color. Your rules should work with both simulations! As a group write down your observations about the patterns you see. Think about how the two simulations are related. Once you have identified patterns you need to develop a model that includes several “rules” of how genes are inherited. For example your first rule would be: Specific traits are determined by genes that are passed down from parent to offspring. Rules of Inheritance Activity

Using your observations and patterns make a visual diagram of how traits are inherited and passed down through generations. Your examples should focus on one of the two simulations. Add as many pictures and words as you need to fully explain how your group thinks genes are inherited. Be creative! Poster

Alternative versions of a gene (called alleles) account for variations in inheritable traits. Big Idea #1

An organism inherits two alleles for each trait, one from each parent. Big Idea #2

The version of the gene expressed is called the dominant allele. The gene that has no noticeable effect is called the recessive allele. Big Idea #3

Two alleles for each trait separate during gamete production. This is known as the law of segregation. Big Idea #4