chromosome

a threadlike strand inside the nucleus

that is made up of DNA

The process of cell division. 

The nucleus of the cell prepares by making an exact copy of the chromosomes.  During mitosis, each chromosome separates from its copy.  The cell membrane pinches in at the mdidde, forming two new cells.  Since each cell has the same DNA it has the same shape and function as the parent cell.

asexual reproduction

Reproduction by simple cell division.  Does not happen with the joining of male and female cells.

sexual reproduction

The form of reproduction in which cells from a male and female join to form a zygote.

 meiosis

the process that reduces the number of chromosomes in reproductive cells.  (**Think "my"...I'm going to take my stuff and then you'll have 1/2 as many)

gamete

A reproductive cell formed during the 2nd stage of meiosis.  It has 1/2 the number of chromosomes that are in the body.

zygote

A single cell formed during sexual reproduction.  It contains chromosomes from both the female parent  and the male parent.

regeneration

Tissue replacement.  In humans, skin cells divide and regenerated skin grows over a cut.  But some plants and animals can regenerate   Mitosis is the function that makes this possible.

life cycle

The series of distinct stages of life that most organisms grow and mature through.

direct development

A kind of growth where organisms keep the same body features as they grow larger

metamorphosis

A change in the shape or characteristics of an organism's body as it grows

incomplete metamorphosis

 Has only 3 stages: egg, nymph, and adult.  They must shed their outer skeletons as they grow through a process called molting.

complete metamorphosis

It has 4 stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

inherited trait

a characteristic that is passed from parent to offspring

recessive trait

A weak trait.  In order to be seen, it must be passed on by both parents.  (**Think recess is more fun with 2 people.  or The weak needs more help so it needs both parents.)

dominant trait

A strong trait.  In order to be seen, it needs to be passed on by only one parent.  (Think strong doesn't need as much help.)

gene

Structures on a chromosome that contain the DNA code for a trait an organism inherits.  Genes for a certain trait alays occupy the same place on a chromosome.