8th Grade Science

Comprehensive study of physical, life, and Earth sciences with scientific inquiry.

Scientific Inquiry & The Scientific MethodMatter and Its PropertiesCells and Living SystemsEarth’s Structure and Resources
Forces, Motion, and EnergyGenetics and HeredityWeather, Climate, and Human Impact
Scientific Problem Solving in Daily LifeConserving Resources and RecyclingMaking and Interpreting Scientific Models
Analyzing Data and GraphsAnswering Open-Ended Science QuestionsUsing Process of Elimination
Scientific Inquiry &...Matter and Its Prope...Cells and Living Sys...Earth’s Structure an...Forces, Motion, and ...Genetics and Heredit...Weather, Climate, an...Scientific Problem S...Conserving Resources...Making and Interpret...Analyzing Data and G...Answering Open-Ended...Using Process of Eli...
Advanced Topics

Genetics and Heredity

How Traits Are Passed Down

Genetics is the study of heredity—the passing of traits from parents to offspring. Traits like eye color, hair type, and even some diseases are passed through genes.

DNA and Genes

DNA is a molecule that carries the instructions for life. Genes are sections of DNA that determine specific traits.

Dominant and Recessive Traits

  • Dominant traits show up even if only one parent passes them on.
  • Recessive traits only appear if both parents pass them on.

Why It Matters

Understanding genetics helps scientists prevent diseases and improve crops and animals.

Real-World Applications

  • Doctors use genetics to diagnose inherited diseases.
  • Farmers breed plants for better taste or resistance to pests.

Examples

  • A child inherits curly hair from one parent.

  • Some diseases, like cystic fibrosis, are inherited through genes.

In a Nutshell

Genetics explains how you inherit traits from your family.

Key Terms

Gene
A section of DNA that codes for a trait.
Chromosome
A structure that holds many genes.
Heredity
Passing traits from parents to offspring.
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Weather, Climate, and Human Impact