Inherited traits explain family resemblances — Biology, 7–10 years
Living things receive instructions from their parents, so relatives may share features. Small differences still appear, which is why family members are not identical.
Similar, but not identical
Parents pass biological instructions to their offspring. These instructions influence traits such as natural hair texture, blood type, or the shape of a leaf. An offspring receives a mixture of instructions, so it can resemble both parents without being an exact copy.
Why relatives resemble one another
A young animal needs a way to develop a body like its species and parents. Inherited instructions provide a starting plan, while the surroundings and experiences also affect how the body grows. This explains both family resemblances and differences between brothers, sisters, or young animals.
Two puppies from one litter
Imagine two puppies from the same litter. Both have floppy ears and four white paws, traits they received through their parents. One has a darker patch on its back and grows slightly taller than the other. Shared instructions explain the similarities; different combinations and growth explain the differences.
What you learn is not always inherited
It is easy to think a child inherits every feature seen in a parent, because families often share habits and looks. But a scar, a suntan, a language, or the ability to ride a bicycle is acquired during life, not passed in biological instructions. Inherited traits can be influenced by surroundings, but they are not the same as learned traits.
Choosing plants and animals
People who grow crops or breed animals sometimes choose parents with useful traits, such as sweet fruit, strong wool, or calm behaviour. Their offspring may inherit some of those traits, but results are not guaranteed. Care, food, health, and chance still affect how each individual develops.
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