A Recipe for Traits
Source Institutions
-
University of Utah
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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.
- 30 to 45 minutes
- 45 to 60 minutes
- $1 - $5 per group of students
- Ages 8 - 18
- Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
- English, Spanish
Quick Guide
Materials List (per group of students)
- Copies of student pages (S1 to S3)
- Drawing paper
- Crayons or colored pencils
- Tape
- Envelopes
- DNA Strips A (page 5); 8 copies on Blue
- DNA Strips B (page 6); 8 copies on Green
- DNA Strips C (page 7); 8 copies on Yellow
- DNA Strips D (page 8); 8 copies on Red
Subjects
- Life Sciences
- Diversity of Life
- Animals
- Heredity and Genetics
- Patterns of Heredity
- DNA Structure and Function
- Diversity of Life
- Mathematics
- Data Analysis and Probability
- Data Analysis
- Data Representation
- Data Analysis and Probability
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
