Name __________________________ Date___________

Inherited and Acquired Traits

Quiz

Vocabulary

behavior inherited trait

acquired trait instinct trait

1. __________________ - a characteristic that a living thing gets during its

lifetime.

2. __________________ - a characteristic of an organism.

3. __________________ - a response by an organism to its environment.

4. __________________ - a characteristic that a living thing gets from its parents.

5. __________________ - a natural, inherited behavior.

Read each trait. Circle whether the trait is inherited or acquired.

6. Knowing how to play the guitar 7. Having red hair

a. inherited a. inherited
b. acquired b. acquired

8. Having dimples 9. The color of a bird’s feathers

a. inherited a. inherited
b. acquired b. acquired
10. Having blue eyes 14. The length of your eyelashes
a. inherited a. inherited
b. acquired b. acquired

11. A scar from falling down the stairs 15. Your height (how tall or short )
a. inherited a. inherited
b. acquired b. acquired

12. Being able to speak French 16. The ability to roll your tongue
a. inherited a. inherited
b. acquired b. acquired

13. Being able to cry 17. A bent tree trunk from lightening
a. inherited a. inherited
b. acquired b. acquired

True or False

18. _______________ A ladybug inherits its spots.

19. _______________ A bird inherits its ability to fly.

20. _______________ Inherited traits do not change.

21. _______________ Many acquired traits are learned behaviors.

22. _______________ You were born knowing how to use your voice and speak
English.

23. _______________ If a dog has scars that means its puppies will be born with
scars.

BONUS

1. Give one example of a physical trait. 2. Give an example of an instinct.

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