Punnett Square

Throughout the topic of genetics in science class, we have been learning about and using the Punnett Square. The Punnett Square is a type of grid, in the topic of genetics, used to show the gametes of each parent and their possible offspring, or a type of grid that can indicate all the possible outcomes of a genetic cross; also called [checkerboard]. We have done various experiments and activities that involve using Punnett Squares, such as Hamster Vacation, the Super Hero project, Toothpick Fish Activity, and various coin flipping activities. To see a Punnett Square, click the link below:

http://www.geocities.com/geneinfo/graphics/dominant.jpg

Throughout the genetics topic, I have learned that Punnett Squares show all of the possible combinations of alleles, that a Punnett Square is used like a multiplication table, and that a capital letter on the Punnett Square will always represent the dominant gene, and the lower case letter on the Punnett Square will always represent the recessive gene. I believe that knowing how to read a Punnett Square is very important and useful because it is a quick and simple way to figure out a child's allele possibilities and can be used throughout life. To learn how to use a Punnett Square, follow the steps below:

Steps to Using a Punnett Square-

1. Draw a box that is two blocks by two blocks

2. Label one of the dominant allele combination's alleles in each of the boxes across the top.

3. Label one of the recessive allele combination's alleles in each of the boxes along the right-hand side

4. Use the Punnett Square like a multiplication table
(dominant allele comes before recessive)

5. Determine the outcome by counting the number of new dominant and recessive allele pairs