Exploring Genetic Variation
A Grade 6 science worksheet introducing genetic variation, its causes, and its importance for species.
Includes
Standards
Topics
Exploring Genetic Variation
Name:
Date:
Score:
Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. Use complete sentences for short answer questions.
All living things have traits that are passed down from their parents. However, individuals within a species are not exactly alike. This variety is called genetic variation. It's what makes each of us unique!
1. What is the term for the variety of traits within a species?
Heredity
Adaptation
Genetic variation
Evolution
2. Which of the following is an example of genetic variation in humans?
Learning to ride a bike
Having different eye colors
Getting a sunburn
Eating a healthy diet
3. Genetic variation is important because it helps species to changes in their environment.
4. Traits are passed from parents to offspring through .
5. All individuals within the same species are exactly identical.
True
False
6. Genetic variation can lead to differences in appearance, behavior, and even resistance to diseases.
True
False
7. Explain in your own words why genetic variation is important for the survival of a species.
8. Give two examples of genetic variation you might observe in a group of your classmates (e.g., hair color, height).
Use the words below to complete the sentences.
9. Different characteristics, like eye color or height, are called .
10. Genetic information is carried by which are found inside cells.