Genetics Introduction

 This week, we are starting the genetics unit.  (We’ll incorporate mitosis and meiosis with genetics.). One comprehensive website for genetics is here.  My teens start with A Genetics Traits Inventory.  We include the PTC test.  (HST sells the PTC paper.). The kids will graph the class data for homework in a spreadsheet.  I’m hoping the data mirrors these general population reference numbers.  I’ll have the kids do the inventory with their families, too.  

Next are Punnett Squares and Practice.  I’m using this slideshow about Gregor Mendel.  I spend more time on human traits than pea plant traits.  Invest time practicing Punnett Squares and emphasize the meaning of terms: alleles, dominance, recessive, etc.  Remember this is fun!