English National Curriculum - Science

Genetic inheritance

Mission Objectives

Use key genetic terms correctly to describe how characteristics are inherited, including genotype, phenotype, genes and alleles

Explain how characteristics are inherited, including the difference between single-gene and multiple-gene traits, and how genotype affects phenotype

Use Punnett squares to predict outcomes of genetic crosses and interpret results using ratios and probabilities (including unfamiliar examples for higher tier)

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Keywords

Words and meanings to learn

gene

a small section of DNA on a chromosome that codes for a specific protein

allele

a different version of the same gene

genotype

the combination of alleles an organism has

phenotype

the observable characteristics of an organism

dominant allele

an allele that is expressed if present, even if only one copy is inherited

This lesson has been written by

Samantha Batch

Samantha is an accomplished science educator whose current work centres on curriculum design and professional development, supporting teachers to deliver high-quality science education through evidence-informed approaches. She is a former Head of Chemistry and Sixth Form Tutor with extensive Key Stage 4 and 5 experience, and has worked as an AQA examiner, giving her valuable insight into assessment standards and what students need to succeed.

Underpinning this is a strong foundation in applied science built across a range of industry roles. Samantha has held scientific roles at John Smith's Brewery, Yorkshire Water and WasteCare, where she led technical projects, drove operational efficiencies and ensured compliance with industry standards. Across these roles she has first-hand experience of how scientific knowledge translates into measurable outcomes in professional and commercial environments.

In her spare time, Samantha enjoys playing the accordion with her local orchestra and has recently taken up cricket. 

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