Curated OER
Genetics
Comprehend that many human characteristics-all physical traits and possibly many personality traits-are determined by our genetic makeup. These activities demonstate that all physical traits are genetically determined, some evidence...
University of Utah
University of Utah: Genetic Science Learning Center: Epigenetics
Videos, interactive activities, and articles explaining the influences that cause parts of the genome to be turned on and off. Learn how nutrition, behavior, stress and other factors determine gene expression.
TED Talks
Ted: Ted Ed: What Is Epigenetics?
Here's a conundrum: Identical twins originate from the same DNA - so how can they turn out so different? Carlos Guerrero-Bosagna explains that while nature versus nurture has a lot to do with it, a deeper, related answer can be found...
Read Works
Read Works: The Same but Different
[Free Registration/Login Required] An informational text about identical twins Maggie and Samantha and how they are similar but also very different. A question sheet is available to help students build skills in reading comprehension.
Discovery Education
Discovery Education: Twins
This lesson encourages students to explore the phenomenon of identical twins, with emphasis on behavioral as well as genetic aspects. Teachers will appreciate extension activities, suggested readings, and links in addition to lesson plan...
Other
Better Health Channel: Identical and Fraternal Twins
The Better Health Channel of Victoria, Australia, offers information on twins. Factors that increase the odds of having twins, how different types of twins originate, possible birthing complications, and zygosity testing are covered.
CommonLit
Common Lit: Book Pairings: "The Crossover" by Kwanme Alexander
Inseparable twin brothers Josh and JB love basketball, but changes in their lives begin to pull them apart. Selected (6) reading passages (grades 5-8) to pair with "The Crossover" by Kwanme Alexander. [Free account registration required...
Khan Academy
Khan Academy: Test Prep: Mcat: Genes, Environment, and Behavior
The way that you carry a conversation, respond to failure, form relationships with others, and generally behave is in part related to your genetics - but your world and life experiences also shape your attitudes and behaviors. This...
Sophia Learning
Sophia: Nature vs. Nurture
This lesson will look at how to recognize key factors of the nature vs. nurture debate in psychology.