Inherited vs. Acquired Traits
Grade 5 Science Understanding What Makes Us Who We Are
Think About This...
What do you have in common with your parents? What makes you different from them? Are these differences something you were born with or something you learned?
What Are Traits?
Traits are characteristics that describe how we look and act Examples: eye color, height, hair type, abilities Every living thing has traits - plants, animals, and humans Traits help make each individual unique
Two Types of Traits
{"left":"Inherited Traits\nPassed from parents to children through genes\nYou are BORN with these\nExamples: eye color, blood type, natural hair color","right":"Acquired Traits\nGained or learned during your lifetime\nChanged by environment or experience\nExamples: scars, language, riding a bike"}
Inherited Traits in Action
Eye color - brown, blue, green, hazel Hair texture - straight, wavy, curly Height potential (how tall you can grow) Blood type Ability to roll your tongue
Acquired Traits in Action
Scars from injuries Muscle strength from exercise Languages you speak Skills like playing piano or riding a bike Tan from sun exposure
Trait Sorting Challenge
Work in groups of 5 Sort the trait cards into 'Inherited' or 'Acquired' Discuss with your team - some might be tricky! Be ready to explain your choices
Remember This!
Inherited traits come from your parents through genes - you're born with them Acquired traits develop during your lifetime through experience and environment Both types of traits make you uniquely YOU!