Grade 9 Life Science | Inheritance and Variation | Genes, DNA & Genetic Traits Explained

In this exciting Grade 9 Life Science lesson, students discover how traits are passed from parents to offspring through the study of genetics. We explore the role of DNA, genes, and chromosomes, explaining how they carry the instructions that make every organism unique. We begin with Gregor Mendel’s experiments with pea plants — the foundation of modern genetics — and how he discovered dominant and recessive traits. Students learn how to use Punnett squares to predict genetic outcomes and understand the terms genotype and phenotype. We also explore mutations, genetic variation, and inheritance patterns such as incomplete dominance, codominance, and multiple alleles (like blood types). Real-world examples help connect science to daily life — from eye color and height to genetic diseases and traits in animals. Students will also learn how meiosis creates genetic diversity and why variation is essential for evolution. We connect this topic to DNA technology, including genetic testing, cloning, and selective breeding — showing both scientific benefits and ethical challenges. By the end of this lesson, students can: ✅ Explain how genes and DNA determine traits ✅ Predict inheritance using Punnett squares ✅ Understand why no two individuals (except identical twins) are the same ✅ Recognize the importance of variation in evolution and survival This video builds a strong understanding of how genetics shapes life and connects directly to the next topic — Evidence of Evolution.