Genes Complete Science Lesson - New TEKS 8.13B

This comprehensive middle school life science unit equips students to understand and explain the function of genes within chromosomes and how they determine inherited traits of offspring. Students will explore the roles of chromosomes, genes, and DNA in providing the blueprint for growth and development across all living things. The unit includes editable presentations, worksheets, student-choice projects, a differentiated station lab, and assessments. Designed for multiday use with minimal prep, this resource emphasizes student-led, differentiated learning so teachers can focus on facilitating success.

Essential Questions for Students

• What is the function of genes within chromosomes?

• How do genes determine the inherited traits of offspring?

Standards Alignment: Meets 2021 TEKS standard 8.13B.

What Makes This Lesson Stand Out

• Differentiated materials for students needing additional support

• Multimodal learning opportunities to engage diverse learners

• Flexible delivery—resources available in printable and digital formats

• Editable PowerPoints for customization

• Spanish translations of vocabulary, a station lab passage, and interactive notebook pages

Instructional Framework: The 5E Model

This lesson follows the **5E Model—Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, Evaluate—**for a well-rounded learning experience.

Engage

• Objectives and Word Wall Cards (English & Spanish)

• Teacher file with discussion starters, classroom activity ideas, and common misconceptions

Explore

• A nine-station, student-led lab where students investigate how genes, DNA, and chromosomes work together to determine traits

Input Stations:

• Explore It! – Hands-on demo or experiment

• Read It! – Differentiated reading passages (English & Spanish) with comprehension questions

• Research It! – Online activity with tasks and guided questions

• Watch It! – Short video with discussion prompts

Output Stations:

• Organize It! – Card sorts (printable or digital) for categorization and analysis

• Write It! – Open-ended prompts requiring clear, complete responses

• Illustrate It! – Sketching or drawing activities to reinforce retention

• Assess It! – Formal assessment questions and vocabulary-in-context practice

Bonus Station:

• Challenge It! – Extension activities such as puzzles, crosswords, games, or mini-projects for advanced learners or early finishers

Explain

• Editable PowerPoints (standard and interactive versions)

• Interactive notebook templates (print & digital, English & Spanish)

• Guided note-taking templates

Elaborate

• Student-choice projects applying genetics concepts to demonstrate mastery in creative ways

Evaluate

• Assessments updated for STAAR 2.0, with standard and modified versions

• Review worksheets and discussion questions for practice or test prep

Flexible Implementation

All materials are designed for in-class or virtual learning. The station lab and interactive notebook files are compatible with PowerPoint and Google Slides, making them easy to adapt for blended or online environments.

This is a finished product; it will be updated with corrections as needed. Future improvements and new features will be sold as a separate product.