BSCS | Curriculum Development | Genes and Surroundings

Curriculum Development > Middle School 6-8 > Other Supplemental Programs > Genes and Surroundings

Genes and Surroundings

Kendall/Hunt Publishing Co., 2000

The second edition of Genes and Surroundings provides an introduction to basic concepts in genetics for middle school students and teachers. The program highlights the study of the biological basis of variation by focusing on the interaction of genes and environment in the development of human traits. Genes and Surroundings comprises 23 classroom activities organized into five units that focus on major concepts:

"You and Me" (Every human being is different from other human beings. How are you different from other people?)
"Generations" (All people have the same number of legs, ears, noses and so on. But people are different in size, shape, color and other characteeristics. What causes the similarities? What causes the differences?)
"Variety" (Although people differ in some obvious ways, we are more alike than different.)
"Change" (How do people change as they grow older?)
"Environment" (Your environment includes your family, your friends, community, school, work and the natural world.)

A separate teacher's guide provides detailed, up-to-date background material on genetics, as well as detailed guidance for teaching each activity. All activities have been revised and updated from the first edition.

Available from Kendall/Hunt Publishing.