Animal Genetics: Chickens, Cavies & Inherited Traits | Growing Learners Ages 10–14

Why can animals with the same parents look different? 🧬🐓

Explore the science of inheritance through chickens and guinea pigs in this 18-page Growing Learners study, inspired by a community request!

Designed for ages 10–14, Animal Genetics combines clear explanations with activities throughout—no separate workbook needed.

Learners will explore:

• DNA, chromosomes, genes, and alleles

• Inherited traits, learned responses, and environmental influences

• Genotype versus phenotype

• Dominant and recessive inheritance

• Homozygous and heterozygous allele combinations

• Punnett squares and probability

• Simplified chicken comb and guinea pig coat-length models

• Why feather colors and patterns can involve multiple genes

• Selective breeding, genetic diversity, and animal welfare

Includes practice problems, genetics case files, a hands-on paper simulation, a student-designed investigation, reflection questions, and an answer key with science sources.

The inheritance models clearly explain their assumptions and limitations. All investigations use fictional animals or paper materials; no animal breeding is required.

18-page printable PDF digital download. No physical product will be shipped.