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Analyzing Pedigrees

Computer illustration of a pedigree

Topic

  • Genetics
  • Patterns of Inheritance
  • Genetic Disease

Resource Type

  • Activities
  • Lessons

Level

High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege
Saved By
48 Users
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Description

This activity introduces students to how pedigrees are used by scientists who study human disease.

Students begin by reading information about the symbols used in pedigrees and how to read pedigrees. They then examine three different pedigrees of families with individuals who have spinocerebellar ataxia, colon cancer, and familial adenomatous polyposis. For each pedigree, students answer questions about the inheritance pattern and consider how family members might use this information.

Student Learning Targets

Use information in pedigrees to infer the inheritance pattern of certain human traits.

Estimated Time

One to two 50-minute class periods.

Key Terms

dominant, genetic testing, inheritance, recessive, symptoms, trait

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Version History

Date Published 03.07.03

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS3-1; SEP2, SEP6

AP Biology (2019)

SYI-3.C, IST-1.I, IST-4.A; SP1, SP2

IB Biology (2016)

3.1, 3.4, B.5

Common Core (2010)

ELA.RST.9–12.7, ELA.WHST.9–12.1

Vision and Change (2009)

CC3; DP1, DP3

Materials

Analysis Document (PDF) 244 KB
Analysis Document Answer Key (PDF) 11 KB

Educator Tips

Hear how educators are using BioInteractive content in their teaching.
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1-Minute Tips

Pedigree Analysis Activity

Jackie Washington describes how she uses the BioInteractive pedigree analysis activity, in conjunction with the "Learning From Patients" Holiday Lecture, to teach Mendelian genetics to her college students.
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