Inherited and Acquired Traits
Explore the differences between inherited traits passed down through genes and acquired traits developed through environmental factors and experiences.
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Inherited and Acquired Traits
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability. This worksheet will test your understanding of inherited and acquired traits.
1. Traits that are passed down from parents to their offspring are called traits.
2. Traits that an organism develops during its lifetime due to environmental factors or experiences are called traits.
3. The molecule that carries genetic instructions in all living things is .
4. Eye color and hair color are examples of traits.
5. Learning to ride a bicycle is an example of an trait.
1. Which of the following is an example of an inherited trait?
A scar from an injury
Natural hair color
Learning to speak a language
A suntan
2. Which of the following is an example of an acquired trait?
Having five fingers on each hand
Attached earlobes
Being able to play a musical instrument
Dimples
1. Inherited traits are always visible at birth.
True
False
2. Acquired traits can be passed down to offspring.
True
False
1. Explain the main difference between inherited and acquired traits.
2. Give two examples of inherited traits and two examples of acquired traits.
The image below shows a DNA double helix. DNA contains the genetic instructions that make each living organism unique.
Think about how DNA relates to inherited traits. Answer the following question:
How does DNA help explain why offspring resemble their parents?
Look at the image of the human eye. Eye color is an inherited trait.
Consider your own traits and those of your family.
Identify one inherited trait you share with a parent or grandparent, and one acquired trait you have developed. Explain why each is inherited or acquired.