Inherited Traits and Learned Behaviors — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
My dog learn to sit when I say the command clearly.
Corrected: My dog learns to sit when I say the command clearly.
My dog is singular, so Grade 3 grammar writes learns, not learn.
2. Fix the sentence:
The parrot and its owner practices new words every morning.
Corrected: The parrot and its owner practice new words every morning.
The parrot and its owner are two, so Grade 3 uses practice.
3. Fix the sentence:
Horses that trains on trails learns to follow the rider's signals.
Corrected: Horses that train on trails learn to follow the rider's signals.
Horses is plural, so Grade 3 writes train and learn without s.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A puppy that is taught to sit on command is showing a learned behavior.
Sitting on command is taught, a Grade 3 example of learned behavior.
2. Cats using a litter box learn this behavior from practice, not birth.
Kittens learn litter use, so Grade 3 calls this a learned behavior.
3. A parrot can learn to say words like 'hello' by copying its human owner.
Parrots learn words through practice, a Grade 3 learned behavior.
4. Trail horses learn routes and commands after training from experienced riders.
Horses learn trails, showing Grade 3 students how training shapes behavior.
Part C: True or False?
Read each statement. Circle True or False.
1. Grade 3 fact: a dog rolling over for a treat is a learned behavior.
True False
Rolling over requires practice, so Grade 3 classifies it as learned.
2. Grade 3 claim: parrots are born already knowing every English word.
True False
Parrots learn words by listening, so Grade 3 shows this is not inherited.
3. Grade 3 idea: a horse that follows trail signals learned this from training.
True False
Trail skills develop from training, a Grade 3 learned behavior example.