In this activity, students carry out a genetics webquest using resources from the Science Learning Hub or a genetics animation from the Learn Genetics website.

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

  • explain the key terms DNA, gene, chromosome, trait, genotype and phenotype
  • describe where DNA is found in the body
  • explain that genes code for specific proteins
  • explain the basic concept of inheritance – that parents pass chromosomes on to their children
  • explain how our phenotypes are a result of an interaction between genetic make-up and environmental factors
  • give some examples of environmental factors that affect our phenotypes.

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

  • introduction/background notes
  • what you need
  • what to do
  • extension ideas
  • student worksheets
  • teacher answer sheet.

Useful link

Visit the Learn Genetics website to go on an animated tour covering DNA, genes, chromosomes, proteins, heredity and traits.

    Published 10 June 2011, Updated 4 July 2018 Referencing Hub articles
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