Beyond the Textbook: Genetics Gets “Purriodic” at iLEAD Online!

At iLEAD Online, we believe that the deepest learning happens when our learners can take concepts out of the textbook and apply them in creative, hands-on ways.

This project, from Instructor Alix Cauthron’s class, is a perfect example!

While learning how elements are categorized using the Periodic Table, learner Lilly M. channeled her passion for felines into her own creation: a “Purriodic Table” that beautifully categorizes cat breeds.

This unique project allows us to explore fundamental scientific principles—like categorization and genetics—in a way that is engaging and completely learner-driven.

The Genetics of Feline Coats: A “Purriodic” Summary

Lilly’s “Purriodic Table” cleverly organizes cat breeds based on their coat length (columns) and rarity (rows).

This structure mirrors the organization of elements and highlights how physical traits are categorized based on their underlying genes.

Coat Length and Simple Genetics: Coat length is controlled primarily by a few genes, following basic rules of inheritance.

• Short Hair is Dominant: The gene that causes short hair is dominant. If a cat inherits even one copy of this gene, its coat will be short (like the American Shorthair).
• Long Hair is Recessive: The gene that causes long hair is recessive. For a cat to have a long coat (like the Maine Coon or Persian), it must inherit the long-hair gene from both parents.
• Hairless/Curly Coats: The unique coats of the Hairless (e.g., Sphynx) and Curly-haired (e.g., Cornish Rex) groups are often caused by various mutations in a gene called Keratin 71, which affects the hair’s structure.

Rarity and Breed Evolution

The Rarity rows reflect the history and human influence on cat genetics.

• Common breeds typically have dominant traits or have been established for a long time.
• Rare/Very Rare breeds are often based on newer or highly specific spontaneous mutations that have been recently selected by breeders (e.g., Ukrainian Levkoy).

Explore, Create, and Share with iLEAD Online

Lilly’s project visually demonstrates how the physical traits in cats are systematically grouped based on their underlying genetic blueprints. This kind of deep, project-based learning is what iLEAD Online is all about. We empower our learners to take ownership of their education, creatively demonstrating their learning about academic topics, whether chemistry, biology, or the world of cats!

If your family is looking for an educational environment where learners are invited to share what they’ve learned in their own unique and impressive ways, we invite you to join the iLEAD Online community!

About iLEAD Online:

iLEAD Online is a free public TK-12 school providing personalized online education with flexible schedules, allowing learners to pursue their passions like acting, athletics, and dance, alongside their studies. Founded in 2017, we emphasize individualized and project-based learning, leadership, and social-emotional growth. Learners benefit from technology, arts, and deeper learning, developing collaboration and critical thinking skills through our flexible virtual independent study model. Certified educators and college counselors offer personalized support, including guidance on college applications and financial aid. We also offer NCAA and UC a-g approved courses. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadonline.org.

Join our innovative school today!