Lesson Plan

Why So Blue?

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

It turns out blue is not just for the Smurfs! Introduce young geneticists to the Fugate family, known throughout Kentucky for their unusual skin tone. A two-day lesson from K20 explores dominant and recessive traits through partner activities, research, and a pedigree study.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Introduce recessive gene inheritance by placing the activity at the midpoint of a genetics unit
  • Take the lesson further by learning more about the treatment used to get rid of the blues
Classroom Considerations
  • Make sure to print the pedigree chart clearly so pupils can follow it
Pros
  • The Fugate family's blue trait is a fantastic hook!
  • Activity gives students experience in working with pedigrees, a difficult but necessary skill
Cons
  • None
Common Core