Making a Face

How chromosomes make us, us!

Vocabulary

• Gene• Chromosomes• Inherited Traits• Acquired Traits• Genotype• Phenotype• Sex Cells

Gene

• Piece of DNA that codes for a specific trait

Chromosomes

• DNA that is coiled up so that it is easier to move from cell to cell.

Inherited traits

• Features that are only passed down to offspring through DNA. Cannot be changed

Acquired Traits

• Features that are not passed through DNA– Ex. A scar on your leg or a new hair cut

Which are inherited and which are acquired?

• Hair color• Eye Color• Hair style• Callus on your finger• Nose shape• Bigger muscles from working out• Scar on your arm• Ear size

Genotype

• The combination of genes you receive

Phenotype

• The features that result from your genes

Red Red White

Sex cells (gametes)

• Sperm cells and egg cells only have half of the DNA of our regular cells

• When they come together, they will make a complete set of chromosomes for the new offspring– ½ DNA from mom + ½ DNA from dad