Monohybrid

Interactive, scaffolded model

Overview and Learning Objectives

Students will be able to:

• Examine the effect of random selection on the distribution of traits.
• Explore the use of Punnett squares in order to understand the combinations of gene distribution.
• Practice making predictions using information from Punnett squares.

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Classroom Practice

The inheritance of traits can be followed through many generations of offspring using a pedigree or family tree. The randomness of allele distribution in nature is emphasized and Punnett squares are introduced and related to pedigrees and the process of meiosis. All of this combines to help the student understand one of the most fundamental lessons of genetics, that each parent contributes half the chromosomes, and therefore, half the genes that each baby inherits and that the distribution is random.

The combinatorics of gene distribution is also stressed. Predictions can be made about the probability of how many of the offspring will have a particular trait.

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Central Concepts

Key Concept:

Monohybrid inheritance, Punnett squares, probability, predictions.

Additional Related Concepts

Concept Map Available

Biology

• Adaptation
• Punnett Square
• Sickle Cell Anemia

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Textbook References

• Biology (Miller and Levine) Prentice Hall 5th Edition - Unit 3: Chapter 9 - Introduction to Genetics
• Biology (Prentice-Hall) New York Edition - Chapter 11: Genetics
• Biology: Exploring Life - Chapter 10: Patterns of Inheritance
• BSCS Blue (8th Edition) - Chapter 13: Patterns of Inheritance
• BSCS Human - Chapter 11: Continuity of Information through Inheritance
• Web of Life - Chapter 6: Fundamentals of Genetics

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Activity Credits

Created by CC Project: Biologica using Biologica

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Requirements

• Java 1.4+ - Java 1.4+ is available for Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X 10.3 and greater.

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