Chen thinks that the Himalayan Rabbits have "secret color genes" allowing for the various fur patterns found. He needs help with his research to see if his hypothesis is correct.
MS-LS1-5. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.
Trait variation; genotype, genetic factors, environmental factors, hypothesis, dna
Students discover that environmental factors can affect physical traits. This opens up an opportunity to learn more about why this happens, and if there are other animals or plants with similar abilities.
Chen thinks that the Himalayan Rabbits have "secret color genes" allowing for the various fur patterns found. He needs help with his research to see if his hypothesis is correct.
Students head to the animal daycare center to collect some observations and DNA samples of the three rabbits. It is interesting that all 3 rabbits appear to have the same color genes but different fur patterns.
Students head back to Chen to make a claim based on the evidence they collected. Is Chen's hypothesis correct or does it need revision?
