Curated OER
Cracking the Code of Life
Students examine the concept of DNA. They work together to extract DNA cells from their classmate's cheek. They answer questions related to what to do with their DNA now that they have it.
Discovery Education
Blueprint for Life
DNA is the code for all biological traits, both plant and animal. Using an exploratory lesson, learners begin to explore the concept of a biological code by decoding word puzzles. They then extract DNA from plant cells using detergent to...
Curated OER
Cracking the Genetic Code
Students investigate different purposes for manipulating DNA. After reviewing the structure and functions of DNA, students explore topics related to the use or manipulation of DNA and the potential benefits and problems, later making a...
Curated OER
Chromosomes And DNA
In this science worksheet, students complete 2 sentences about chromosomes and DNA. Students also list the 4 bases that have "special names."
Curated OER
Cracking the Code - Cloning Paper Plasmid
Students explore the "genetic code." They observe how genes may be manipulated for genetic research, gene cloning, and genetic engineering. In a lab setting, students examine the mechanics involved in cutting and ligating DNAs into a...
Curated OER
Cracking the Genetic Code
High schoolers examine an article, "Genome 'Treasure Trove'" and participate in a class discussion prior to researching further information in order to write their own feature article on the Human Genome Project.
Curated OER
Cracking Codes and Ciphers
Learners explore different codes and ciphers including Morse Code, Egyptian Hieroglyphs, and the Alphabet. They discuss how and why codes are used. Students create their own code and message to exchange with classmates.
Curated OER
Secret Codes
Students examine Morse code and how it is used. In this secret codes lesson students decode messages, make their own codes and have other students crack the code.
Curated OER
Building a Model DNA
Students explain the function of DNA in the body. In this biology lesson, students build a DNA model using simple materials. They demonstrate how bases pair up in the helix.
Curated OER
DNA and RNA Structure and Transcription
Students compare and contrast the structure of RNA and DNA.They summarize the process of transcription and translation. The instructional activity uses an inquiry model and the use of codes in DNA.
Curated OER
Disproving the Proof
Students investigate the progression of discoveries that have led to the genetics knowledge that scientists currently have. They determine how genetic experiments disproved previous theories on inheritance.
Kenan Fellows
Unit 4: Bioethics and the Future of Biotechnology
What's the future of biotechnology? Explore a hot topic in the fourth and final unit in a series of Biotechnology lessons. Learners develop an understanding of the many issues in bioethics, then create an argument for or against the role...
Curated OER
Gene to Protein
Mutation and auxotrophs are discussed. Next, the details of RNA transcription and how enzymes can control splicing and introns are given.
Biotechnology Institute
Biotechnology Institute: Your World: Cracking the Code of Life [Pdf]
The Biotechnology Institute, in conjunction with a special titled, "Cracking the Code of Life" from NOVA/WGBH television, presents this issue dedicated to explorations of the human genome, one of the most exciting and provocative areas...
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: Journey Into Dna
Travel deep into the human body to see exactly where your DNA resides. From the NOVA: Cracking the Code of Life Web site.
PBS
Pbs Teachers: Cracking the Code: Explore a Stretch of Code
Investigate the makeup and function of genes and genetic code by exploring an actual stretch of human DNA in this activity.
Nobel Media AB
The Nobel Prize: How to Crack the Code
Through a series of illustrations, learn about the physical carriers of inheritance. Discover facts about DNA, the blueprint of life, and RNA, the blueprint copy.
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: Genetic Variation
This video segment from NOVA: "Cracking the Code of Life" explores the genetic similarities and differences among organisms.
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: The Sequencing Race Begins
This video segment from NOVA: "Cracking the Code of Life" looks at one of the key players in the race to decode the human genome.
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: Nature Versus Nurture Revisited
Which dictates our existence? Is it our genetic makeup or the environment we grow up in? Kevin Davies offers an update on this long-standing debate, from the NOVA: "Cracking the Code of Life" Web site.