Why do children resemble their parents and siblings? Introducing young
readers to the fascinating world of genetics, this educational resource
presents the main concepts of the science, including what a chromosome
does, how DNA is structured, and how genetic inheritance works.
In Genetics: Breaking the Code of Your DNA students learn about new
discoveries in the field of genetics and how those discoveries have
helped to cure or even prevent certain diseases, as well as examine
controversial issues in genetics such as genetically modified foods and
stem cell research. Combining inquiry-based, age-appropriate activities
with biology, Genetics: Breaking the Code of Your DNA features graphic
novel illustrations, fascinating sidebars, and a glossary of important
vocabulary to illuminate the complex world of genetics and bring it to
life. Projects include building 3D DNA double helix models, extracting
DNA, using a Punnet Square to predict an offspring's probability of
inheritance, and evaluating the benefits and risks of genetically
engineering a new species. Additional materials include a list of
current reference works, websites, and Internet resources.
Genetics meets common core state standards in language arts for
reading informational text and literary nonfiction and is aligned with
Next Generation Science Standards. Guided Reading Levels and Lexile
measurements indicate grade level and text complexity.