BSCS uses the most recent studies by eminent researchers to provide pertinent/relative professional development for teachers who wish to have their student learn science.
Genes, Environment, and Human Behavior
- Explores how scientists investigate the genetics of human behavior
- Grades 9–12 | © 2000
- Five activities designed to be taught in sequence
- A Human Genome Project Curriculum Supplement
- Download this complimentary module
Genes, Environment, and Human Behavior, BSCS's fourth module related to the Human Genome Project, includes background information on the methods and assumptions of behavioral genetics and student activities. Students are introduced to the complexity of the interactions of genetic, developmental, and environmental phenomena on human behaviors. It helps them realize that neither genes nor environment tells the whole story. Intelligence is used as an example of a complex human behavior, as is novelty-seeking behavior. The nature of human behaviors is contrasted with other human traits that exhibit simple inheritance patterns, and with complex physical traits such as adult height. Students learn to understand human behavior in terms of genes and environment as they explore techniques used by behavioral geneticists. An important goal of the module is to develop among the students an appreciation of the potential impact of this emerging knowledge on public policy.
This curriculum supplement was funded by the Department of Energy.
Student Activities
- Investigating Complex Traits
- Human Variation
- A Novel Trait
- Finding the Genes That Influence Novelty-Seeking Behavior in Humans
- Activity Four Extension: Chi-Square Calculation
- Paula’s Law
Click here to download Genes, Environment, and Human Behavior.
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