1. Module 6

1.23. Lesson 5

Lesson 5

Module 6—Mendelian Genetics: The Transmission of Traits to the Next Generation

Lesson 5—Probability

 

The photo shows a coin toss.

© James Steidl/shutterstock

Get Focused

 

Genetics involves predicting outcomes. Just like tossing a coin to decide who kicks the football, there is always a certain amount of chance in genetic outcomes. Still, the players at the game know that there are only two possible outcomes, and the likelihood of either one is 50%.

 

By reviewing how probabilities of traits work together, and by learning the product or addition rule, you will be able to more reliably predict how a trait, or traits, should move from generation to generation.

 

probability: the likelihood of an event occurring; can be expressed as a decimal (0.20), fraction (), or percentage
(20%).

 

product: to multiply

 

addition: to add or sum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In this lesson, you will learn how to predict the genetic outcome of future generations by examining numbers and ratios. Patterns can give the likelihood of a trait remaining hidden or being expressed.

 

In this lesson, the following focusing question will be examined:

  • How can ratios be used to analyze types of inheritance or to predict the possibility of a trait appearing in the next generation?
Module 6: Lesson 5 Assignment

 

Your teacher-marked Module 6: Lesson 5 Assignment requires you to submit a response to the following:

  • a lab on calculating probability

Download a copy of the Module 6: Lesson 5 Assignment to your computer now. You will receive further instructions on how to complete this assignment later in the lesson.

 

There will be a few concepts and examples for you to add to your flash cards in this lesson.

 

You must decide what to do with the questions that are not marked by the teacher.

 

Remember that these questions provide you with the practice and feedback that you need to successfully complete this course. You should record the answers to all of the questions and place those answers in your course folder.

 

Remember, you also have the option of trying additional questions from the textbook for further practice. Consult with your teacher for the answers to these questions. The Key will also provide you with many Diploma Exam-style multiple-choice, numerical-response, and written-response questions that will be an excellent review of the module. Practising your responses to these types of questions is good preparation for the Diploma Exam.

 

Materials

  • a small cup
  • pencil and paper
  • two coins of the same denomination