Acquired and Inherited Traits for Kids

Get ready to kick off your next science unit and introduce your students to the foundations of human genetics–acquired and inherited traits! It seems like an advanced concept to teach at such an early age, but it is possible, and your students will love learning about what makes them unique. If you’re new to the classroom or just need a refresher, here’s the rundown on Acquired and Inherited Traits for Kids!

Inherited Traits Definition and Description

• Definition: Inherited traits are characteristics that are passed down from one generation to the next through genetic information, typically in the form of DNA
• Transmission: These traits are inherited from parents to offspring during reproduction.
• Genetic Basis: Genetic material or genes in an organism determine inherited traits. The trait’s expression is influenced by the combination of genes inherited from both parents.
• Examples of Inherited Traits: Eye color, hair color, blood type, and certain genetic predispositions (such as the likelihood of developing certain diseases) are examples of inherited traits.

Acquired Traits Definition and Description

• Definition: Acquired traits are characteristics that an organism gains through environmental influences or experiences during its lifetime.
• Development: These traits are not encoded in the organism’s DNA but result from interactions with the environment.
• Not Passed Genetically: Acquired traits are not passed on to descendants through genetic inheritance. They are not transmitted through DNA.
• Examples of Acquired Traits: Learned behaviors, skills acquired through experience, and physical changes due to environmental factors (such as skin tone or singing ability) are examples of acquired traits.

Inherited and Acquired Traits Worksheet Pack

This printable resource pack features two engaging activities that encourage your students to look at the differences between inherited traits and acquired traits. It also looks into how parents pass down different characteristics, which are expressed differently in siblings, particularly in the case of twins!

This resource has students searching for examples of inherited traits and determining which traits were passed on by the mother and father based on a survey. It’s a great way to blend graphing, table-reading, and Science all in one go!

Download and Print Your Inherited Traits Worksheets 

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More Activities for Teaching Inherited vs. Acquired Traits

Before you go, take advantage of a world of educational possibilities! Explore our related resources to enhance your teaching toolkit.

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Inherited versus Learned Behaviors Poster

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Inherited and Acquired Plant Traits - Reading Passage

Read and learn about inherited and acquired traits in plants with a printable reading comprehension passage and worksheet.

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Inherited and Acquired Plant Traits Research Project

Help your students uncover the different inherited and acquired traits of plants with a research project!