Passage
Grades 5–8
What Are Alleles?
Reading Passage · MS-LS3-1
Free
Science · Curriculum resources
Genes and DNA Worksheets and Activities
Explore our collection of Genes and DNA curriculum resources for grades K-8. This hub offers worksheets, reading passages, games, and activities that introduce young learners to heredity and build toward a deeper understanding of genetic concepts. Whether you teach kindergarten or middle school, you will find materials to support your science curriculum.
4 results
Passage
Grades 5–8
History of Genetics
Reading Passage · MS-LS3-1
$1.50
Passage
Grades 5–8
Mutations and Genetic Variation
Reading Passage · MS-LS3-1
Free
Passage
Grades 5–8
Genetic Disorders
Reading Passage · MS-LS3-2
$1.50
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About these Genes and DNA worksheets and activities
In the earliest grades, students begin by learning that living things have parents and offspring that resemble them. They observe inherited traits in plants and animals, using simple activities and graphic organizers to record similarities and differences. As they progress through upper elementary and middle school, the focus shifts to the role of DNA as the molecule that carries genetic information. Students explore chromosomes, genes, alleles, dominant and recessive traits, and the basics of heredity through Punnett squares and pedigrees. Related concepts include cell structure, protein synthesis, and genetic variation.
Our resources scaffold this progression: primary-level matching games and coloring sheets give way to reading passages that explain DNA structure, worksheets that model trait inheritance, and interactive games that reinforce vocabulary. Teachers can find no-prep, standards-aligned materials that are teacher-authored and classroom-ready. Many resources are available in both printable and digital formats, and some are free; a membership unlocks the full library.
Using these in your classroom
This hub lets you differentiate across a mixed-ability room by selecting resources at different complexity levels. Use the simpler worksheets and games for whole-group introduction or literacy centers, and the more advanced reading passages and Punnett square activities for small groups or independent practice. Assign digital versions for homework or intervention, and use printable graphic organizers for review or assessment. The scaffolded design allows you to reteach concepts with simpler materials or challenge advanced students with higher-level tasks. Mix and match printable and digital resources to fit your instructional setting, whether you need a quick no-prep lesson or a multi-day unit.
Standards alignment
These resources align with grade-level Common Core standards for reading informational text and with state science standards for heredity and biological evolution. They support key concepts across the K-8 grade span.
Frequently asked questions
Are these Genes and DNA worksheets printable?
Yes, many of our Genes and DNA worksheets are available in printable PDF format. Some resources are free, and a membership gives you access to the full collection of printable and digital materials.
Are these Genes and DNA worksheets for kids of all elementary grades?
Absolutely. Our Genes and DNA worksheets for kids span grades K-8, with content tailored to each developmental level. Early grades focus on inherited traits, while upper grades explore DNA structure and heredity in more depth.
What types of resources are included besides worksheets?
In addition to worksheets, this hub includes reading passages, interactive games, graphic organizers, and hands-on activities. You will find everything from simple coloring pages to Punnett square exercises and DNA model activities.
Do I need a membership to use these resources?
Some resources are free to download, but most require a Workybooks membership. A membership gives you unlimited access to all printable and digital resources across every grade and subject.