Interactive Pedigree Analyzer
View Pedigree Analyzer Fullscreen
About This MicroSim
This quiz-style tool presents 12 pre-built three-generation pedigrees (3 per inheritance mode) in randomized order. Students must analyze the pedigree and select the correct inheritance pattern. Immediate feedback explains the key diagnostic clues. After answering, hovering over any individual reveals their inferred genotype.
How to Use
- Examine the pedigree — squares are males, circles are females, filled = affected, unfilled = unaffected.
- Select an inheritance pattern from the four buttons (Autosomal Dominant, Autosomal Recessive, X-Linked Recessive, X-Linked Dominant).
- Read the feedback — correct answers show the key clues; incorrect answers provide a diagnostic hint.
- Hover over individuals after answering to see their inferred genotypes.
- Click "New Pedigree" to load the next challenge. Your score is tracked.
Lesson Plan
Grade Level
9-12 (college placement Biology)
Duration
10-15 minutes
Prerequisites
- Understanding of dominant vs. recessive alleles
- Knowledge of autosomal vs. sex-linked inheritance
- Familiarity with standard pedigree symbols (squares, circles, filled/unfilled)
Activities
- Exploration (5 min): Work through 3-4 pedigrees. After each answer, hover over individuals to see genotypes and read the diagnostic clues.
- Guided Practice (5 min): Before selecting an answer, write down: (a) Does the trait skip generations? (b) Are males and females equally affected? (c) Do affected fathers pass to all daughters? Use these questions to narrow down the mode.
- Assessment (5 min): Try to get 5 correct in a row. For each one, explain which clue was most diagnostic.
Assessment
- Can students distinguish autosomal dominant from autosomal recessive based on whether the trait skips generations?
- Can students identify X-linked recessive by noting that only males are affected?
- Can students recognize X-linked dominant by the pattern of affected father transmitting to all daughters but no sons?