1. Genetics Learning Goals 1. Describe Gregor Mendel 2. List the two things that increase genetic variation. 3. Understand the Law of Dominance.

2. A. What is Genetics  Genetics is the scientific study of heredity.  Heredity is what makes each species unique.

3. B. Gregor Mendel  Austrian Monk  Famous for his work with pea plants  He is known as the father of genetics

4. C. Mendel’s Work  Mendel used true-breeding plants which means they would produce offspring identical to themselves.  Focuses on 7 traits

6. More on Mendel’s Work  Hybrids are offspring from parents with different traits. “mutt”  Genes a section of DNA that determine a trait.  The different forms of a gene are called alleles.

7. D. The Principle of Dominance  states that some alleles are dominant and others are recessive.  Dominant alleles are always expressed. Brown eyes are dominant.  Recessive alleles are only expressed if both alleles are recessive. Colored eyes are recessive.

8. E. Segregation & Independent Assortment  The separation of alleles during meiosis to form gametes (sex cells).  The Law of Independent Assortment states that genes for different traits can segregate independently during meiosis. **Both of these allow for genetic variation Learn.Genetics from the Genetic Science Learning Center

9. Mendel’s Principles  The inheritance of biological characteristics are determined by genes.  For two or more forms of a gene, dominance and recessive forms may exist.  Most sexually reproductive organisms have two sets of genes that separate during gamete formation.  Alleles segregate independently.