WRITE A PORTFOLIO INFORMATIVE TEXT ON 7TH GRADE LEVEL ON THE SUBJECT BELOW:
Analyze an article about genetics & then create a monster baby & describe it
In this option, you will be reading a couple of articles about genetics (like you are learning about in Science) & write a RACES paragraph response to those articles
You will then be using punnett squares to create a monster baby, which you will also illustrate & write about
Genetics: The Science of Inheritance
Hello, 7th-grade scholars! Today, we are diving into the fascinating world of genetics. Have you ever wondered why you resemble your parents or why siblings may look similar but also have distinct features? Well, it all comes down to the study of genetics and the passing down of traits from one generation to another. Let's analyze an article about genetics and learn how we can create a monster baby using punnett squares!
Firstly, genetics is the branch of science that explores how traits are inherited from parents to their children. Geneticists, scientists who study genetics, have discovered that traits aren't simply a mix of both parents' physical features. They are determined by a combination of DNA, which is like a set of instructions that determine how living things should grow and function. Through the understanding of genes, we can comprehend why some traits are more likely to appear than others.
Now, let's dive into an interesting article about genetics. Read it carefully and use the RACES strategy to analyze and respond to the text. Remember, RACES stands for Restate, Answer, Cite, Explain, and Summarize. Restate the question, answer using evidence from the text, cite the specific parts of the article, explain your response, and finally, summarize your thoughts.
After understanding the basics of genetics by analyzing the article, it's time to introduce a fun activity – creating a monster baby! To do this, we will use punnett squares, which help us predict the traits that a baby might inherit from its parents. Imagine combining the physical characteristics of two mythical creatures to create a fascinating monster baby of your own!
Grab a punnett square template and jot down the traits of two mythical creatures you want to combine. For example, you might choose a dragon and a unicorn. Think about the physical features, such as scales, wings, horns, or fur, that each creature possesses. Then, assign each trait a letter, like "D" for dragon scales and "U" for unicorn's horn. Fill in the punnett square with the letters representing the traits, and by analyzing the possible genes your monster baby might inherit, you can predict its appearance.
Once you have determined the traits your monster baby will possess, let your imagination run wild! Illustrate and describe your monster baby using as many vivid details as possible. What color are its scales? Does it have wings or a horn? Maybe it has a combination of both creatures' characteristics! Describe your monster baby's personality, abilities, and any other unique features it might possess.
Now that you have successfully analyzed an article about genetics and created your monster baby, reflect on what you have learned. How do punnett squares help us understand the inheritance of traits? How do different combinations of genes determine an individual's physical appearance? Take a moment to appreciate the complexity and wonder of genetics and its role in shaping living organisms like ourselves.
Remember to embrace your creativity and enjoy the process of exploring genetics through the creation of your monster baby. Who knows, you might just discover a new mythical creature that will spark the imagination of others!