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Area of Study 1: How is inheritance explained?
In this area of study students describe the production of gametes in sexual reproduction through the key events in meiosis. They explore the nature of chromosomes and the use of genetic language to read and interpret patterns of inheritance and predict outcomes of genetic crosses.
Students explain how a characteristic or trait can be influenced by one gene, many genes acting together, and genes interacting with external environmental or epigenetic factors. They apply their genetic knowledge to analyse pedigree charts, determine patterns of inheritance and predict outcomes of genetic crosses. - VCAA study design 2022 - 2026
Outcome 1
On completion of this unit the student should be able to explain and compare chromosomes, genomes, genotypes and phenotypes, and analyse and predict patterns of inheritance. - VCAA study design 2022 - 2026
The key knowledge in area of study 1 relates to chromosomes and genomes, genotypes and phenotypes, and patterns of inheritance. Chromosomes and genomes are covered in chapter 6 in the Nelson textbook. Genotypes and phenotypes, and patterns of inheritance is covered in chapter 7.
Key knowledge
Key knowledge
From chromosomes to genomes
From chromosomes to genomes
the distinction between genes, alleles and a genome
the nature of a pair of homologous chromosomes carrying the same gene loci and the distinction between autosomes and sex chromosomes
variability of chromosomes in terms of size and number in different organisms
karyotypes as a visual representation that can be used to identify chromosome abnormalities
the production of haploid gametes from diploid cells by meiosis, including the significance of crossing over of chromatids and independent assortment for genetic diversity
Key knowledge
Key knowledge
Genotypes and phenotypes
Genotypes and phenotypes
the use of symbols in the writing of genotypes for the alleles present at a particular gene locus
the expression of dominant and recessive phenotypes, including codominance and incomplete dominance
proportionate influences of genetic material, and environmental and epigenetic factors, on phenotypes
Patterns of Inheritance
Patterns of Inheritance
pedigree charts and patterns of inheritance, including autosomal and sex-linked inheritance
predicted genetic outcomes for a monohybrid cross and a monohybrid test cross
predicted genetic outcomes for two genes that are either linked or assort independently.
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