Have students complete an inventory of their own observable traits. Students should write down information such as height, hair color, eye color, whether they are right-handed or left-handed or can roll their tongue. Use this information about traits to have students create bar graphs showing which traits show up the most in the classroom. Ask students to compare their list of traits with traits of their parents or siblings. Use this information to begin a lesson about dominant and recessive traits.
Guide students through scenarios involving DNA differences. For example, suggest that two children may have been switched at birth and analyze the traits of the parents and children to determine which parents the children most likely belong to. You may set up a fake crime scene where students find evidence, such as blood type of the criminal, fingerprints, hair samples and other items that contain DNA and then compare them with suspect profiles to determine who committed the crime.
Introduce students to some controversial issues related to DNA differences. Share news reports involving cloned animals and discuss topics such as designer babies with students. Ask students to ponder specific scenarios, such as not marrying and having children with someone because his children were likely to have an undesirable genetic trait or working with a doctor to increase the likelihood that a baby will have specific traits, such as a certain hair color or a high IQ.
The Human Genome Project and National Human Genome Research Institute seek to identify all of the genes in human DNA. While much of the research may be too complex for students, the organization offers multiple resources to help teachers introduce students to DNA differences. You will find animated presentations and slide shows to use with students. You will also find information on how to invite a speaker from the project to come speak with students about DNA and the project in general.
Online games will help students practice cross-breeding items and learn about DNA differences. The Canadian Museum of Nature offers multiple online games through its “The Gee! In Genome” exhibit, where students may make a clone, perform DNA tests or help families decide what genes a baby should have. Pfizer also offers online games for students, including “Heredity Slots,” which has students play a virtual slot machine to determine which genes a child will receive.