Key Area 4

(b) Analysis of patterns of inheritance in genetic screening and counselling

This part of the key area delves into exploring patterns of inheritance. This is important during pregnancy (or during genetic screening of embryos during IVF treatments) to follow patterns of inheritance in genetic disorders. We will revisit key genetic terms and explore patterns of inheritance in a range of genetic conditions, including those that are sex-linked.

Something to Read...

Open the document below and read the mandatory course notes provided by SQA for this Key Area. You may wish to use your home learning time to copy these notes into a jotter or choose a digital presentation format that suits your learning style.

CfE Higher Human Biology Unit 2, Key Area 4b

Something to Watch...

An introductory video on Pedigree charts. This actually covers a lot of detail - if you have found this a challenging area, take your time and watch this. Place a section and then complete some questions relating to that before moving on.

Cystic Fibrosis - an autosomal recessive disorder

Huntington's Disease - an autosomal dominant disorder

Sex-linked recessive disorders

A short animation from the National Centre for Medical Genetics which explains what sex-linked recessive genetic conditions are and what they mean for an affected person's offspring.