Family Tree - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

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A family tree is a diagram that shows the relationships between different members of a family over many generations. It looks like a chart or a tree, starting with one person at the bottom and branching out to show their ancestors, such as parents and grandparents, as well as descendants like children and grandchildren. In GCSE Biology, a family tree can help us understand how traits and characteristics are passed down through generations. This can include physical features like eye colour or genetic conditions. By studying family trees, we can learn more about inheritance and how our genes influence who we are.

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Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

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