Learning objective

Explain that different forms of a gene are called alleles.

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At a glance

Flashcards

Questions

Topic

Reproduction

Subtopic

Genetic inheritance

AQA GCSE BiologyInheritance, variation and evolution

Study support

Understand this objective

Short explanation

Explain that different forms of a gene are called alleles.. Within Reproduction, this learning objective sits inside Genetic inheritance for AQA Biology 8461. Focus on using ideas such as allele, gene accurately in your explanation. A strong response should define the core idea, describe the relevant biological process, and connect it back to the question wording instead of giving a vague definition. When revising, students should aim to explain the science clearly, include precise biological vocabulary, and show how the process or structure links to the wider topic rather than listing isolated facts.

Key concepts

AlleleGene

Why it matters

This objective helps connect Genetic inheritance to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for Reproduction.

Common mistakes

1 linked

Confusing alleles with genes: Explain that a gene is a specific location on a chromosome that can exist in different forms (alleles). Clarify that each individual carries two alleles for a gene (one from each parent) and that the set of all possible alleles for a gene is called the allele pool. Use examples such as the gene for flower colour in pea plants having alleles for purple, white, and pink to illustrate the concept.

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