Inherited Traits, Instincts, and Learned Behaviors

Instinct, inherited trait, or learned behavior?

Bears go into hibernation.

• Instinct

• Inherited trait

• Learned behavior

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

Instinct, inherited trait, or learned behavior?

A rabbit digs a burrow.

• Instinct

• Inherited trait

• Learned behavior

Instinct, inherited trait, or learned behavior?

Melanie has curly hair.

• Instinct

• Inherited trait

• Learned behavior

Instinct, inherited trait, or learned behavior?

Jamal is very tall.

• Instinct

• Inherited trait

• Learned behavior

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

Evelyn learned to play the piano by watching her teacher and practicing regularly. This is an example of a 

• learned behavior 

• inherited trait

• adaptation 

• function

What is an instinct?

• A skill that is developed with practice over time

• A behavior that an organism inherits and knows how to do without being taught

• A change in behavior due to punishment or reward

• A personal preference or liking

An owl hunts. 

• Inherited Trait

• Instinct

• Learned Behavior

Tags

NGSS.4-LS1-2

A behavior that is developed by observing others or by being taught is a 

• learned behavior 

• inherited trait

• adaptation 

• function

Which of the following behaviors is considered instinctual in animals?

• Playing a video game

• Using tools after watching others do it

• Migrating during certain seasons

• Learning to cook

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-4

Instinct, inherited trait, or learned behavior?

Jillian has brown eyes.

• Instinct

• Inherited trait

• Learned behavior

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

NGSS.MS-LS4-4