Table 2.

Adaptation of a Genetics Literacy Assessment Instrument item

Original	Modified
At what times during an individual’s life does the environment influence the expression of his or her genes?	Can the environment influence gene expression? If so, during which times in an individual’s life?
A. Beginning at conception and lasting throughout life.	A. Yes, beginning at conception and lasting throughout life.
B. Beginning at birth and lasting throughout life.	B. Yes, beginning at birth and lasting throughout life.
C. Beginning at birth and lasting until adulthood.	C. Yes, beginning at birth and stopping when a person reaches adulthood.
D. Occurring only during key stages of life such as puberty and menopause.	D. Yes, but only during key stages of life such as puberty.
E. Environment has little or no effect on how genes are expressed.	E. No, the environment has little or no effect on gene expression.

Correct answer: “A.”