Basic Concepts in Heredity

Abstract

Paragraph 1 from textbook chapter assignment: Heredity is the transmission of genetic characteristics from parent to offspring. Heredity affects our everyday lives. It is what makes every individual unique and every family similar. How does heredity work? What biological functions are in place to ensure genetic diversity? What are genes and how do they work in terms of heredity? Can scientists use genes to predict wellbeing and a healthy life for an individual? These questions and more are addressed in this chapter but first, we need to start at the beginning.