CSEL Science is aligned with the principles of phenomenon-based and three-dimensional learning.

For example, Module 7: Patterns of Inheritance and Applications helps students extend their understanding of inheritance beyond complete dominance. Across the module, students examine sex-linked traits, incomplete dominance, codominance, and inheritance patterns shown in family pedigrees. Students use Punnett squares to predict genotype and phenotype probabilities, interpret and build pedigree charts to track traits across generations, and apply these tools to a real-world case about sickle cell inheritance.

The module culminates with Sonia’s Story, a sickle cell inheritance case study. Students examine how red blood cell phenotypes connect to genotypes, use a family pedigree to trace how Sonia inherited sickle cell trait, and use Punnett squares to predict possible inheritance outcomes in the next generation. An optional extension connects sickle cell trait to malaria resistance, helping students consider how genetic variation can affect trait distribution in populations. Across the module, students use models, analyze patterns, apply probability, and construct evidence-based explanations about how allele combinations affect traits.

In CSEL Science, the word “session” refers to a structured period of time devoted to a specific biology subtopic. Across three sessions, students engage in integrated use of Science and Engineering Practices (SEPs), Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs). In Module 7, students extend their understanding of inheritance beyond complete dominance by comparing inheritance patterns, using pedigrees to track traits through families, and applying these tools to Sonia’s Story, a sickle cell inheritance case study. See table for session-by-session NGSS alignment.

Science and Engineering Practices

Students develop and use models throughout the module. In Session 7.1: Other Patterns of Inheritance, students use Punnett squares to model sex-linked traits, incomplete dominance, and codominance. They calculate genotype and phenotype probabilities and compare inheritance patterns. In Session 7.2: Tracking Traits Using Pedigrees, students interpret pedigree symbols, identify affected individuals, and build pedigree charts to track traits through generations. In Session 7.3: Sickle Cell Inheritance Lab, students apply Punnett squares and pedigrees to Sonia’s Story, using family information to explain how Sonia inherited sickle cell trait and to predict possible inheritance outcomes.

Across the module, students analyze genotype and phenotype tables, interpret pedigree charts, identify patterns, and use probability to make predictions. Students construct explanations orally and in writing as they connect allele combinations, observable traits, and evidence from genetic models. In the optional sickle cell extension, students also analyze the relationship between sickle cell trait and malaria resistance.

Disciplinary Core Ideas

The module centers on core ideas from HS-LS3: Heredity, Inheritance, and Variation of Traits. Students learn that genes are located on chromosomes and that different versions of genes, or alleles, can combine in different ways to influence traits. Students extend their understanding beyond complete dominance by studying sex-linked traits, incomplete dominance, codominance, and, optionally, multiple alleles.

Students use these inheritance patterns to explain how genotypes are related to phenotypes and how traits can be passed from parents to offspring. In the sickle cell inheritance case study, students connect allele combinations to red blood cell phenotypes, including normal red blood cells, sickle cell trait, and sickle cell anemia. The case gives students a real-world context for applying inheritance concepts to human health and family history.

Crosscutting Concepts

Crosscutting concepts are woven throughout the module. Students identify patterns as they compare inheritance types and interpret how traits appear across generations in pedigrees. They use cause and effect reasoning to connect genotypes to observable phenotypes, including red blood cell phenotypes in the sickle cell case. Through Punnett squares and inheritance probabilities, students apply scale, proportion, and quantity to predict genotype and phenotype ratios. In the sickle cell extension, students consider how inheritance patterns can influence trait distribution in populations.

Students use these inheritance patterns to explain how genotypes are related to phenotypes and how traits can be passed from parents to offspring. In the sickle cell inheritance case study, students connect allele combinations to red blood cell phenotypes, including normal red blood cells, sickle cell trait, and sickle cell anemia. The case gives students a real-world context for applying inheritance concepts to human health and family history.