Me Myself and My DNA

23 and Me® is a company that analyzes a DNA sample sent by a customer in order to provide genetic information (medical, ancestry, etc.) to that
customer. The “23” refers to the 23 pairs of chromosomes that most human cells have. You are going to do a project inspired by 23 and Me® that
includes investigating 23 traits of your choosing to share with the class.

The goal is for you to investigate a few traits that you possess and for you to find some common ground amongst your peers. You are encouraged
to be brave and to be open to hear what others have to say. You might be surprised how much you have in common with your peers!

Some things to consider:

● A “trait” is a distinguishing quality or characteristic.
● A minimum of 10 “nature” traits must be included (those inherited from your parents).
● A minimum of 10 “nurture” traits must be included (based on outside factors; not genetic).
● The remaining 3 traits are up to you.

Products:
● Presentation. Once you choose your traits (and the sky is the limit), create a product to share with the class that showcases your 23 traits.
This product might include photographs, descriptions, videos, reflective pieces, stories, memorabilia, keepsakes, artwork, magazine
clippings, etc. Use your creativity for this presentation—how you highlight your 23 traits is entirely up to you. Your product must be stand-
alone, meaning you will not present it formally to the class. We will have a gallery walk for everyone to view and interact with the
presentations.
● Written piece. For each of the 23 traits, you will offer some specifics about the trait you chose (examples: what it is, who you inherited it
from, if it is dominant or recessive, how common it is, what factors contributed to that trait, if other family members have the trait, etc.).
Each trait should have a 2-3 sentences of writing to accompany it. This written piece could be a separate addition to your presentation or
part of the product itself and can be typed or handwritten.

Your products will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

● 23 traits are identified
● Minimum of 10 inherited traits
● Minimum of 10 environmental traits
● All 23 traits are represented visually in product (ex: a photo of your family to address height as a trait).
● All 23 traits have a 2-3 legible, thoughtful and complete sentences with the visual.
● Presentation is well thought out and designed; high quality work is presented.
● Written component includes citations of any outside sources.
Have FUN taking a closer look at how AMAZING you are and finding ways to share WHAT and WHO you are with others! I am excited to learn a
little more about each of you (and to share my own 23). ☺
Classmate Shared Genetic Trait Shared Environmental Trait It surprised me that…