Section 12.4 Guide to Genetic Mutations Types Causes and Outcomes

Identify each DNA alteration by its structural change such as base substitution insertion or deletion. Classification earns credit only when paired with an accurate description of how nucleotide order is modified.

Link each variation to protein impact. Silent changes leave amino acid sequences unchanged, while missense shifts alter one unit and frameshift events disrupt all following codons. Use codon charts to verify outcomes.

State common causes clearly including replication errors radiation exposure or chemical agents. Explanations score higher when they connect source to molecular effect and observable traits.