Curated OER
The Watson-Crick Model of DNA Structure
Junior geneticists construct models of DNA to discover sequencing and pairing of nucleotides. They use the models to simulate protein synthesis and then translate the codes into physical traits. Finally, they use the traits to create a...
Curated OER
Genes, DNA, and Mutations
With paper DNA patterns, budding biologists model translation and base-pair substitution within sequences. Through these activities, they examine how mutations can result in genetic disorders. The modeling that occurs is an enlightening...
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Viral DNA Integration
How do viruses hijack our cells to produce more viral particles? Junior immunologists model how viral RNA integrates into a host cell's DNA using pop beads and use interactive tools to explore a virus' genome. The teacher's guide...
Concord Consortium
DNA to Protein
Starting from a view of cells, a constructive simulation shows every step of building a new protein. It walks through transcription, translation, building amino acids, and folding the protein. Viewers control if it plays as a video or...
Concord Consortium
Modeling Translation
An mRNA sequences make proteins, the most common molecules in cells. Young scientists observe translation of mRNA on ribosomes. They view them forming amino acids. Finally, the amino acids curl into proteins.
Curated OER
Transcription Translation Tango
Students choreograph and perform a dance to simulate transcription/translation of the DNA molecule to make a protein
Concord Consortium
Mutations
Are some mutations more damaging than others? An engaging simulation encourages scholars to alter DNA through insertion, deletion, and substitution. It then forms resulting amino acids—or not—and the resulting protein—or not—depending on...
Science 4 Inquiry
The Monster Mash
Young scientists create monsters by applying their knowledge of transcription and translation. They randomly find the DNA, assign it a codon, and build monsters piece by piece.
Curated OER
RNA
Learners explain how cells reproduce. In this biology instructional activity, students transcribe and translate a gene. They discuss and compare their answers in class.
Curated OER
Protein Factory
Learners examine protein synthesis and how DNA is transcribed. For this investigative lesson students play a role in the messenger RNA when it creates nucleotides.
Curated OER
Protein Factory
Students discuss the steps of protein synthesis before acting out the process as a class. They are assigned specific roles and receive an instruction card and get materials listed in order to perform their role. Students switch roles...