Reproduction and variation
I can explain why offspring look similar but not identical to their parents and one another.
Reproduction and variation
I can explain why offspring look similar but not identical to their parents and one another.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- When organisms reproduce they make offspring of the same kind (species resemblance)
- Offspring inherit features from both parents, so they look similar to their parents and one another (family resemblance)
- Some features are inherited when DNA is passed from parents to offspring during reproduction
- Some features are caused (or changed) by an organism’s lifestyle and environment
- There is usually variation between offspring; they are not usually identical to their parents or one another
Keywords
Reproduction - the process that creates new individuals of a species
Inherit - to pass on features from parent to offspring
DNA - the molecule that stores genetic information
Variation - differences between individuals within a species
Common misconception
Boys only inherit features from their father and girls only inherit features from their mother. All characteristics are caused by genes.
The lesson consolidates understanding from Y7 that offspring inherit characteristics from both parents, and that some characteristics are caused (or changed) by an organism’s lifestyle and environment.
Equipment
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the adult with the offspring it produces.
tadpole
caterpillar
seedling
Q2.Which MRS GREN process describes the ability of an organism to make offspring?
Q3.Where is DNA stored in an animal cell?
Q4.Where is DNA stored in a bacterial cell?
Q5.How many biological parents does an organism have if it is made through sexual reproduction?
Q6.Who has the correct idea about reproduction?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.A species is a group of organisms which can to make fertile offspring.
Q2.Offspring inherit features from both so they look similar to their family members.
Q3.True or false? Scars are examples of characteristics that can be inherited.
