Biology — Genetics and Inheritance

Exam board: Edexcel  |  Back to subjects

Board-Specific Note

Edexcel (Pearson) specification; check the specific content list for your paper.

Learning Objectives

• Explain DNA structure and replication
• Use Punnett squares
• Describe gene expression

Key Points

• DNA double helix, base pairing
• Alleles, dominant and recessive
• Punnett squares predict ratios

Lesson Plan (50 minutes)

1. Starter (5 min): Recall prior knowledge of genetics and inheritance with quick questions.
2. Teaching (15 min): Work through each of the learning objectives, explaining principles step by step.
3. Key points review (5 min): Revisit the key points together, confirming understanding.
4. Worked example (10 min): Model the example question: For a cross of two heterozygotes (Aa x Aa), phenotypic ratio?. Solution: 3:1 dominant to recessive
5. Practice (10 min): Students attempt the practice questions independently; circulate and support.
6. Plenary (5 min): Review answers and address misconceptions.

Homework

• State the bases that pair with A and C
• Define genotype vs phenotype
• Use a Punnett square for Aa x aa

Assessment

Check practice answers against the model answer; use the built-in practice questions as formative assessment.