IB MYP Grade 8 Science: Genetics, DNA, and Evolution Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards for Genetics, DNA, and Evolution.

Genetic and Environmental Characteristics

Characteristics in organisms arise from both inherited genes and environmental influences.

Inherited Traits

Traits controlled by genes passed from parents to offspring, such as eye color and blood type.

Environmental Traits (Acquired)

Traits resulting from interaction with surroundings, such as language spoken and muscle mass from exercise.

Deoxyribonucleic acid, carries genetic instructions in living organisms.

DNA

Step 1 of DNA Extraction

Mash the fruit and mix with water and salt.

Step 2 of DNA Extraction

Breaks down cell and nuclear membranes to release DNA.

Step 3 of DNA Extraction

Remove large solids (cell walls, pulp).

Step 4 of DNA Extraction

DNA precipitates (clumps) and becomes visible as stringy white strands.

Natural Selection

Process by which organisms better adapted to their environment survive and reproduce more.

Evolution

Gradual change in species over time as a result of accumulation of advantageous inherited traits.

Inherited Characteristics

Traits controlled by genes and passed on from parents, such as eye color and height.

Acquired Characteristics

Learned or developed through life and not inherited, such as pierced ears or scars.

Selective Breeding

Process by which humans breed plants or animals for specific traits.

Step 1 of Selective Breeding

Choose parents with desirable traits.

Step 2 of Selective Breeding

Breed the chosen parents.

Step 3 of Selective Breeding

Select best offspring with desired traits.

Step 4 of Selective Breeding

Repeat the process over generations.

Adaptation

A trait that increases an organism’s chance of survival and reproduction.

Genetic Variation

Differences in DNA between individuals in a species, caused by mutations and sexual reproduction.

Environmental Factors

Climate, availability of food, presence of predators, human impact.

Biodiversity

Variety of living organisms in an area.

Key Idea of Darwin's Theory of Evolution

Individuals in a population vary.

Key Idea of Darwin's Theory of Evolution

Some variations give survival advantages.

Key Idea of Darwin's Theory of Evolution

Those with beneficial traits reproduce more.

Key Idea of Darwin's Theory of Evolution

Over generations, these traits become more common.

Impact of Food Availability on Evolution

Limited food leads to competition, and only the best-adapted organisms survive.

Natural Selection and Adaptation

Traits that help survival become more common.

Fossil Record

Remains or impressions of ancient organisms.

Comparative Anatomy

Study of similarities in body structures among different species.

Homologous Structures

Same basic structure, different function, suggests common ancestry.