A Recipe for Traits

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In this genetics activity, learners create and decode a “DNA recipe” for a dog by randomly selecting strips of paper that represent DNA. Then, learners decode the DNA recipe to reveal the physical traits of their dog and create a final drawing of the organism. Learners discover that differences in the DNA recipe lead to different traits by comparing their DNA recipes and dog drawings with the rest of the group to note similarities and differences. This guide features handouts for learners in English and Spanish.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
30 to 45 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$1 - $5 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 8 - 18
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English, Spanish

Materials List (per group of students)

Keywords

Subjects

  • Life Sciences
    • Diversity of Life
      • Animals
    • Heredity and Genetics
      • Patterns of Heredity
      • DNA Structure and Function
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Analysis
      • Data Representation

Informal Categories

  • Animals

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • read
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Components that are part of this resource:

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

  • Malone, Molly ; Mitchell, April ; Kiger, Steven

Source Collection

  • Teach.Genetics

Rights:

  • All rights reserved, University of Utah, 2006

Funding Sources:

  • Howard Hughes Medical Institute Precollege Science Education Initiative for Biomedical Research Institutions Award, 51000125
  • Health Resources and Services Administration, Maternal and Child Health Bureau, Genetic Services Branch and the March of Dimes, U33MC00157