S5L2 Students will recognize that offspring can resemble parents in inherited traits and learned behaviors.  
 a. Compare and contrast the characteristics of learned behaviors and of inherited traits.  
b. Discuss what a gene is and the role genes play in the transfer of traits.  

A inherited trait is something that you have always had or is part of you because your DNA made you that way. For example, your hair color, eye color, and feet size are based on your genes. A learned trait is something that you can control. You can learn to speak a language, ride a bike or even how to play a sport. Many times learned and inherited traits work together and can get a bit confusing. Consider for example a tremendous athlete. Having athletic ability can be genetic, which is why parents who are athletic are more likely to have athletic kids. However, becoming really good at soccer is a learned activity. Athleticism will help a person become good at soccer more quickly and easily, but learning to play soccer itself is a learned trait. Another commonly mistaken example is the language that you speak. Often kids assume that the language you speak is inherited when in reality it is the result of what your parents teach you. Anyone with a baby brother or sister will be able to see this clearly. Those without younger siblings may find this confusing. Linked here is a great prezi based on "How to Train Your Dragon" which deals with learned and inherited traits.