How Gene Mutations Change Your Ability to Taste
Grade Range
6th-8th
Group Size
Entire class
Active Time
90 minutes
Total Time
90 minutes
Area of Science
Genetics & Genomics
Key Concepts
Genetic variation, gene mutations
Learning Objectives
- Understand the relationship between genotype and phenotype
- Describe how single nucleotide mutations sometimes lead to protein changes
- Explain how traits are inherited
- Understand causes of genetic variation
Credits
Svenja Lohner, PhD, Science Buddies
![]() OverviewExplore genetic variation through the world of taste in this problem-solving lesson plan. Working both individually and collaboratively, students figure out what kind of tasters they are, what this means about their own genetics, and how genetic mutations can lead to functional differences. This activity provides a hands-on, personalized opportunity to learn about how genotypes and phenotypes align.NGSS AlignmentThis lesson helps students prepare for these Next Generation Science Standards Performance Expectations:
Materials![]() Materials for each student:
Reviews |
Grade Range
6th-8th
Group Size
Entire class
Active Time
90 minutes
Total Time
90 minutes
Area of Science
Genetics & Genomics
Key Concepts
Genetic variation, gene mutations
Credits
Svenja Lohner, PhD, Science Buddies
Learning Objectives
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