THE BRAIN V. Genetics 1. Genes - building blocks of heredity, that make up chromosomes A. Chromosome -threadlike structure in the nucleus of every living cell; contains genes. - 46 chromosomes, 23 pairs Heredity is the transmission of characteristics from parents to offspring. Psychologist are interested in studding heredity as a way of understanding how and why people behave the way they do. Heredity is responsible for the transmission of physical traits such as height, hair texture and eye color. And heredity is responsible in part for many psychological traits such as personality and intelligence. In every cell nucleus in your body contains the genetic master code for your entire body. Chromosomes are composed of DNA. DNA takes the form of a double helix. Most normal human cells contain 46 chromosomes that are organized into 23 pairs. In each of the 23 pairs, one chromosome comes from the father and the other comes from he mother. Each chromosome contains instructions for the development of particular traits of an individual. The 22 of the 23 pairs of chromosomes are similar in males and females. The 23rd pair, the sex chromosomes, determines whether we are female or male. In males, the 23rd pair consists of an X chromosome and a Y chromosome. Females have two X chromosomes so they always pass an X chromosome to their offspring. B. DNA -contains the genetic info that makes up chromosomes

THE BRAIN V. Genetics Students write down the following questions in your notes. Write your answers in complete sentences 1. Why are scientists interested in twins who were separated at birth? 2. How does cloning differ from natural reproduction? 3. How do genes influence people’s personalities? Push Play to view a 14 minute vide on genetics. Mac users click on black circle. Original Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xmEjhBknXo Students write down the following questions in their notes. Write their answers in complete sentences.