Gene Environment Interactions

This activity serves as an "Introduction to Health" lesson. Students generate or are given a list of health topics and write each topic on its own sticky note. Students then place the sticky note on an enlarged Venn Diagram posted on a wall, placing it on the circle (Environment, Genes, or Choices) where they think it belongs, or across two circles if they think the topic overlaps. A group of teachers can take part in this activity using the topics taught in Health Class. 50-minute class period.

In this activity, students research the environmental and genetic medical conditions in their own family or in the people they live with. After they complete the family tree, students create an informational brochure about a medical condition in their own family and share with family members, who provide feedback. This activity is also part of the lesson Introduction to Health. Environment + Genes + Choices = Your Health in this table.

A 50-minute hands-on activity that will help students identify the connections between genetics, the environment and personal choices, and how they affect our health.

The lesson will introduce students to the interaction between the environment, genetics, and personal choices, and their effect on one's health. Lesson plan includes three activities: (1) Circle in a Circle (included in the PDF), (2) Your Money or Your Life (listed separately in this table), and (3) Family Tree Activity (also listed separately in this table). This lesson aligns with Washington State EALRs. 2+ 50-minute class periods.

A poster featuring our EH Venn diagram that visually represents the relationship between environment, genes, choices and health. Available in two sizes.