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NGSSMS-LS3-1NGSS-2013

Mutations and genetic variation

NGSS·science·Grade 8·Bloom: Understand·Last verified: May 18, 2026

Develop and use a model to describe why structural changes to genes (mutations) located on chromosomes may affect proteins and may result in harmful, beneficial, or neutral effects to the structure and function of the organism. Clarification: Emphasis is on conceptual understanding that changes in genetic material may result in making different proteins. Assessment Boundary: Assessment does not include specific changes at the molecular level, mechanisms for protein synthesis, or specific types of mutations.

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Skills that teach this standard (1)

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Chromosomes, Genes & DNA
Ecosystems & Habitats · Ages 12–13 · try 3 free questions

Concepts covered (12)

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Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Adaptations and Survival
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Define Evolution And Natural Selection
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Identify Examples Of Adaptations
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Explain Survival Of The Fittest
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Differentiate Between Structural And Behavioral Adaptations
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Interpret Evolutionary Trees
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Summarize The History Of Life On Earth
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Evaluate Evidence For Evolution
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Describe Coevolution Between Species
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Discuss Genetic Variation In Populations
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8
Predict Adaptation Outcomes
evolutionAdaptation · science · Grade 8

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