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Genetic Mutation

CONCEPTUAL
Science›Ecosystems & Habitats|Ages 12—14|ID: mt_rOqo-8GeKt

Explain genetic mutation as a random change in DNA sequence, describe causes of mutation (e.g. radiation, chemicals, copying errors), and explain that most mutations are neutral, some harmful, and a few beneficial

Mastery Evidence

  • Defines mutation as a change to DNA sequence
  • Names at least two things that can cause mutations (mutagens)
  • Explains that mutations are the original source of all genetic variation
  • Explains that beneficial mutations can be selected for by natural selection

Assessment Prompt

“If [child] heard that DNA can get damaged or changed, could they explain what a mutation is, what might cause one, and why most mutations don’t actually cause problems — but occasionally one leads to something new?”

Curriculum Standards1 alignment

KS3.Sci.Bio.Adaptation.4The national curriculum in England
Genetic variation and evolution

genetic variation, mutation and its relationship to evolution

Science · KS3

Prerequisites1

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  • Chromosomes, Genes & DNA hard

    Mutation is defined as a change to the DNA sequence — the DNA model must be understood first

    • Cells Under the Microscope hard

      DNA is housed in the nucleus of cells — the cell as fundamental unit must be understood before studying what's inside the nucleus

Unlocks1