Students commonly learn the parts of a seed and flower for their botany studies. However, we see variety in those parts. Why does this happen? This game can serve as an extension of those lessons by looking at the concept of genetic traits in plant hybrids for our lower elementary students. Two plants of the same species are planted together to promote cross-pollination. The hope is that a hybrid plant will be created with the traits the planter is looking for. Typical reasons for cross-pollination include better-tasting fruit, earlier maturation, less care and water needed, and disease resistance.

Punnett squares are diagrams used to predict expressed genotypes from breeding organisms. This diagram is Mendel's visualized work, the foundation for the modern study of genetics. This lesson plan contains a lower and upper elementary version that will help explain how these diagrams are used through games. The students will represent the offspring inheriting the different genotypes, which dictate how they can play the game. This will provide a fun, concrete experience for your students to see how Punnett Squares help predict how traits are passed on from generation to generation.

Materials: 

·      An ample open space (such as a gym or field)

o   If you play in a gym and can access adjustable basketball hoops, that works perfectly.

o   If playing outside, large 55-gallon waste containers and hula-hoops (with holders that hold them vertically)

·      Soft dodgeball or throwing a ball for lower elementary

·      Basketball for upper elementary

·      Hula hoops

·      Colored jerseys

·      Whiteboard and dry-erase marker

Minimum Amount of Students Needed:

For the lower elementary game, you would want at least eight students. You would want as close to sixteen for the upper elementary game.

Age: All Ages