As students apply their knowledge of scientific concepts and of science as a method of inquiry, learning becomes relevant. This laboratory exercise is designed to foster students' understanding of the genetics of quantitative traits and of the nature of science as a method of inquiry by engaging them in a real-world business scenario. During the investigation, students explore the question of whether the patent rights of a commercial producer of sunflower seeds have been infringed upon by a rival company. Students work as a research team to explore the question, making observations, collecting and analyzing data utilizing statistical tools, and ultimately drawing conclusions regarding possible patent violations. Student-evaluations of the exercise indicate that they perceive that the activity fostered their understanding of genetic principles and of important aspects of scientific inquiry and made the content relevant by linking it to real-world issues. (Contains 3 tables.)