Unit 5: Development

What happens during the Germinal stage?

• Fertilization and implantation occur — the zygote attaches to the uterine wall.

• The fetus begins to move and organs start functioning.

• The embryo develops all major organs and structures.

• The baby is ready to be born and gains weight rapidly.

What is the main event of the embryonic stage?

• The major organs begin to form — the embryo is most vulnerable to teratogenic agents.

• The fetus begins to move and develops reflexes.

• Fertilization between the egg and sperm occurs.

• The baby is ready to be born and the lungs mature.

What are the characteristics of the fetal stage?

• Rapid development and completion — movements and sensory responses are formed.

• Formation of the neural tube and basic organs.

• Implantation of the zygote into the uterine wall.

• Fertilization of the egg by the sperm.

(Application - SS.912.P.6.9) Why is the embryonic stage considered the most important?

• Because organ systems are developing and are vulnerable to toxins or diseases.

• Because the fetus can already survive outside the womb.

• Because the baby is already fully formed and only needs to grow further.

• Because genetic traits are only determined at this stage.

A baby born with a heart defect after exposure to alcohol is likely to be affected during which stage?

• Embryonic stage — when the heart and organs are forming.

• Fetal stage — when growth and maturation occur.

• Neonatal stage — after birth.

• Pre-embryonic stage — before organ formation.

Which of the following is a biological (natural) influence on development?

• Genetic factors such as DNA, heredity, and brain formation.

• Socioeconomic status and family income.

• Cultural traditions and exposure to language.

• Interactions with peer groups and friendships.

Which environmental (nurturing) factors affect development?

• Maternal nutrition, stress, illness, or exposure to toxins.

• Eye color inherited from parents.

• Genetic mutations present at birth.

• Blood type determined by DNA.

The genetic risk of developing diabetes in a child only manifests with a poor diet. What does this indicate?

• Gene-environment interaction — both biology and experience matter.

• Only genes determine health outcomes.

• Diet does not affect genetic risk.

• Genetic risk is always expressed regardless of environment.

What does continuity versus discontinuity explain?

• That some characteristics develop gradually and steadily while others change in stages.

• That all characteristics are genetically inherited.

• That development is completely unpredictable.

• That behavior is only influenced by the environment.

What does a cross-sectional study compare?

• Different age groups at the same point in time.

• The same group over a long period of time.

• Different locations at different points in time.

• The effect of a treatment on a single group.