Genetics at Work
Informational (nonfiction), 1,922 words, Level Z (Grade 5)

Lesson Objectives

Reading Strategy	Summarize
Comprehension	Main Idea and Details
Grammar and Mechanics	Adverbs and Adjectives
Word Work	Content Vocabulary

Book Summary

The book is a discussion of the science of genetics and how it comes into play in many different jobs. Animal breeders use genetics to create hunting, herding, and guarding animals. Endangered animals have been sustained through captive breeding in zoos. Farmers breed plants for taste, durability, and resistance to disease. Medical researchers use genetics to help diagnose and treat diseases and develop medicines. Criminologists use genetics (in the form of DNA evidence) to help them solve crimes.

About the Lesson

Targeted Reading Strategy

• Summarize

Objectives

• Summarize sections of a nonfiction book while reading
• Find main ideas and supporting details in text
• Recognize adjectives and adverbs in descriptive phrases
• Understand content vocabulary

Vocabulary

• Content words: captive breeding, diversity, DNA, genes, genetics, habitat, hybridization, inherited, propagate, selective breeding

Book Resources

Formats Single-Sided Book Single-Sided Color Cover Double-Sided Book Double-Sided Color Cover Lesson Resources Lesson Plan Worksheets Discussion Cards Comprehension Quiz Level Z Answer Sheet