Middle School
Growth and Reproduction
Growth, reproduction, genes, chromosomes, inheritance, and environmental influences.
MS-LS1-4, MS-LS1-5, MS-LS3-1, MS-LS3-2
2 lessons
4 quiz questions
Lesson 1: Growth and Reproduction
Explain how organisms grow and reproduce.
Learning goals
- Describe growth as cell division and enlargement.
- Compare sexual and asexual reproduction.
- Connect reproduction to passing traits.
Growth
Organisms grow as cells divide, cells enlarge, and specialized structures develop. Growth requires matter and energy.
Reproduction
Asexual reproduction produces offspring from one parent. Sexual reproduction combines genetic information from two parents, increasing variation.
Lesson 2: Genes and Inheritance
Use models to explain how traits are inherited.
Learning goals
- Describe chromosomes and genes.
- Explain inherited traits.
- Distinguish genetic and environmental influences.
Genes on chromosomes
Genes are sections of DNA located on chromosomes. Genes contain instructions that affect traits.
Traits and environment
Traits are influenced by genetic information and sometimes by environmental conditions such as nutrition, light, temperature, or exercise.