1. What is Variation? Variation is the diversity among a set of objects
Genetic variation is then differences in inherited traits (genetics) that exist among the members of a species

2. Observing Variation Tall vs Short people Curly vs straight hair
Bent vs straight thumb
Attached vs separate earlobes
Pointed vs smooth hairline
Rolling your tongue

3. Heritable vs Non-Heritable Characteristics
Heritable Characteristics: are passed on from generation to generation
(ex) Eye Colour
Non-Heritable Characteristics: are acquired from the environment
(ex) a tan

4. Discrete vs Continuous Variation
Discrete Variation: differences in characters that have a definite form
(ex) being albino
You are either albino or not
Continuous Variation: differences in characteristics that have a range of forms
(ex) human height which is a range

5. Try This…. Close your eyes and clasp your hands
Which thumb is on top??
Is this discrete or continuous variation?

6. Environment
Variation can result from interactions between individuals and the environment
(ex) If you had 2 identical plants and you put one in the sun and one in a dark closet.
One will be green and bushy
The other will be yellow and wilted