Uncover genes from a fingerprint

Gather all the materials and bring them to a clear table or desk.

Pick 3 or more family members to include in your experiment and write their names on a list.

Wash your hands with soap and water so prints stay clean.

On a sheet of paper draw a simple table with columns labeled Name Finger Print Pattern MockGene.

Write each chosen person’s name in the left column of the table.

Press your right index finger onto the ink pad and then stamp it carefully in your row under Print.

Ask each family member to press their right index finger on the ink pad and stamp into their own row.

Wait one minute for the ink to dry so it won’t smudge.

Use the magnifying glass and your pencil to lightly trace the ridge lines next to each fingerprint.

Look at each tracing and circle whether the pattern is a loop or a whorl or an arch in the Pattern column.

Decide a one-letter mock gene for each pattern (for example W = whorl L = loop A = arch) and write this key at the top of your chart.

Put each person’s matching mock-gene letter in their MockGene box based on the pattern you circled.

For a child in the family write the two parents’ mock-gene letters in a small family box and flip the coin once for each parent to choose which parent’s letter the child inherits; write the child’s inherited gene letter in the box.

Use your gene key to predict the child’s fingerprint pattern and draw or circle the predicted pattern in the family box, then compare it to the child’s actual print on the chart.

Share a photo or description of your finished fingerprint family chart and what you discovered on DIY.org.