Differences between members of the same species.

A large chemical molecule made of nucleotides. It carries the genetic code of all living organisms.

A change in the nucleotide base sequence in the DNA of the genome.

A region of DNA in which the sequence of nucleotide bases has been changed.

Variation and genetic mutations

Combined science

Pupils will learn about eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, and that subcellular evidence, including from analysis of genomes, has led to the classification and sometimes reclassification of organisms into taxonomic groups from species to domains.

Pupils learned that the fossil record provides evidence of evolution from common ancestors through transitional species to modern species, and that the theory of evolution by natural selection can be used to explain phenotypic changes in populations of species over generations.

Variation and natural selection at the genetic level

Depiction or discussion of sex or sexual body parts, including sex education.

Depiction or discussion of sexual content

Which of these examples of variation is heritable?

Which of these examples of variation is influenced by the organism’s genetic material **and** its lifestyle?

The original DNA sequence has been changed by a {{}}, which has created a genetic variant.

Alex: “Mutations are only caused by UV radiation.”

Izzy: “They can be caused by carcinogens and UV radiation.”

Jun: “Mutations can be caused by errors when copying DNA.”

Laura: “It’s just carcinogens that cause mutations in DNA.”

The DNA sequence is changed due to a mutation.

The changed sequence codes for a different sequence of amino acids.

A different or a non-functional protein is made.

Put the statements in the correct order to explain how a mutation can affect an organism’s phenotype.

What is the scientific term for differences between members of the same species?

The genetic material of all organisms is made of a large molecule called {{}}.

the combination of alleles an organism has

Genes are sections of DNA that store the genetic code for making __________ .

Which of these examples of variation is caused by the organism’s genetic material?

Which of these examples of variation could be passed from a parent to their offspring?

Content guidance

Depiction or discussion of sexual content

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Variation and genetic mutations

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.