Inherited Traits How are traits passed? When organisms reproduce, traits are passed from parent to offspring. It all begins in the organisms’ cells. Cells are the basic building blocks of all living things. Cells contain the body’s hereditary material and can make copies of themselves.

Nucleus Inherited Traits A small egg-shaped structure inside the cell Acts like the brain of the cell It tells every part of the cell what to do. It contains chromosomes and genes. Stores the cells hereditary material or DNA

Chromosomes Inherited Traits Thread-like structures that are found in the nucleus of a cell that contains all DNA. Each chromosome is made of protein and a single molecule of DNA. Comes in matching sets of two Human cell nucleus contains 46 chromosomes or 23 pairs. Half of these chromosomes come from one parent and half come from the other parent.

Inherited Traits DNA Molecule that carries the genetic instructions for all living organisms. Short for deoxyribonucleic acid Contains the specific instructions that make each type of living creature unique. Determines how the cells in a body will function

Genes Inherited Traits Genes determine traits. A stretch of DNA on a chromosome with instructions for one trait. Like chromosomes, genes also come in pairs. Each parent has two copies of each of their genes. Each parent passes along just one copy to make up the genes of the offspring. Gene

Quick Action – Inherited Traits Stand up and find a partner to work with. Make a Venn diagram for the similarities and differences between DNA and genes. This activity is a quick break from taking notes.

Quick Action – Inherited Traits Write About Make a list in order from largest to smallest of the 4 cell parts you just learned about. Think it through. Which one is inside the other? Make a quick sketch in your notebook showing this order.

Inherited Traits Cell contains the nucleus. Nucleus contains the chromosomes. Chromosomes contains the DNA. DNA contains the Gene.

Acquired Traits Inherited Traits Physical characteristic of an organism Not passed down to offspring genetically Is a learned trait Is a product of the environment’s influence on the organism

Check for Understanding Can you… Recognize inherited traits? Explain how genetic material found in genes governs inherited traits? Clear up any confusion and answer questions.