Beyond Mendel: Non-Mendelian Inheritance Explained - Biology Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Delve into the fascinating world of genetics with this comprehensive reading comprehension worksheet on non-Mendelian inheritance! While Gregor Mendel’s work laid the groundwork for modern genetics, it didn’t explain all inheritance patterns. In this engaging reading, students will explore beyond Mendel’s laws to discover codominance, incomplete dominance, polygenic traits, and epistasis. With real-world examples like sickle cell anemia and ABO blood types, this worksheet brings these complex genetic concepts to life.

The resource includes:

• A detailed reading passage (~1,200 words) on non-Mendelian inheritance patterns.
• A case study on sickle cell anemia to illustrate codominance.
• Thought-provoking questions: 3 multiple-choice, 4 matching, 3 fill-in-the-blank, and 3 short-answer questions.
• A condensed teacher answer key for easy grading.
• A case study is included to support deeper analysis

This worksheet is an excellent tool for promoting deeper learning and critical thinking in your biology classroom. Perfect for use as sub plans or supplemental learning in genetics units, it aligns with Common Core standards and science courses that cover topics like heredity, DNA, and genetics.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand non-Mendelian inheritance patterns, including codominance, incomplete dominance, polygenic traits, and epistasis.
• Analyze real-world examples of these genetic patterns to explain their significance.
• Apply genetic knowledge to explain complex traits and predict phenotypes.

Recommended Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.9-10.3: Follow precisely a complex multistep procedure when carrying out experiments or performing technical tasks.
• CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RST.9-10.4: Determine the meaning of symbols, key terms, and other domain-specific words as they are used in a scientific context.

Courses Perfect For:

• High School Biology
• Genetics Units
• AP Biology Supplement

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