Curated OER
DNA Models
Students create DNA models. Using puzzle pieces to represent the parts of a DNA strand, they put together a segment of DNA. Once everyone has completed their individual strand, they being linking with other students using tape. Class...
Curated OER
Learning the Structure and Function of DNA
Students read about Humane Genome Project, examine structure and function of DNA, and participate in gel-electrophoresis lab. They complete Internet activity to test their knowledge of DNA.
Curated OER
DNA from the Beginning Study Guide
High schoolers complete a study guide using a website which is an animated primer on DNA, genes, and heredity. The Web site is organized around key concepts. The web links and study guide are included.
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
Dedication to Douglass
Students study the controversy surrounding the proposed Frederick Douglass Circle monument in Central Park. They review the notion of historical inaccuracy by reading and discussing the article, "In Douglass Tribute, Slave Folklore and...
Curated OER
Genetic Analysis
Students formulate a hypothesis regarding the validity of the current status of the Arizona Hedgehog cactus as a distinct variety of cactus. They design a procedure to isolate DNA from the tissue of plants, given a list of chemicals and...
Curated OER
Genes at Work
Students explore and discuss genetics stories and answer questions about genetic outcomes of offspring. In this genetics lesson, students read genetics stories on a web site. Students use a chart to answer questions regarding the...
Serendip
From Gene to Protein - Transcription and Translation
Learners identify the different steps involved in DNA transcription. In this genetics lesson, pupils complete a worksheet and model the translation process with a paper chain activity. They watch a video on sickle cell anemia and explain...
Curated OER
Candy DNA Model Lesson
Students explore DNA structure using materials such as Twizzlers, small colored gumdrops and/or toothpicks.
Curated OER
My Science Box: DNA Fingerprinting
Young scholars identify DNA in a crime scenario. In this DNA lesson, students perform paper chromatography and compare it against the pens of various suspects.
Curated OER
DNA Models
Students construct paper model of the DNA molecule. In this genetics instructional activity, students assemble paper parts that represent nucleotides into a DNA molecule. Extension ideas are also provided.
Curated OER
Fingerprinting
Middle schoolers discover the basics of fingerprinting and how it identifies a person. They create their own fingerprints and compare them to classmate's to determine that no two people have the same identity because of fingerprints....
Curated OER
BLAST Algorithm
Students explore a series of activities on using BLAST. In this biology instructional activity, students explain the significance of BLAST in DNA query. They give real world applications of BLAST.
Curated OER
Electrophoresis Analogy
Pupils participate in a simulation of electrophoresis separation of DNA fragments. They link arms to form DNA fragments with each student representing a nucleotide. As they move through an obstacle course they discover how fragments of...
Curated OER
"Who Done It?" Analysis of Molecular Fingerprints Left At the Scene of the Crime
Students examine different types of DNA fragments. They record and analyze their results. They determine who is the criminal in the story.
Curated OER
The Structure of DNA
Students will demonstrate knowledge of the structure of DNA by constructing simple models of DNA with materials given to them in class. They will also discover that some female scientists such as Rosalind Franklin have not been given...
Curated OER
Understanding the Power of Genes
Students research the impacts of genetic research on homes, research laboratories, and hospitals. In this genetics lesson, students use the Internet to investigate the ways that genetics has affected our way of life. They present...
Curated OER
Radiation Reassessed
Learners investigate the dangers of radiation by exploring recent nuclear tragedies. In this scientific debate lesson plan, students define the idea of radiation "half life" and determine if low doses of radiation are truly...
Curated OER
Cavern Geology: Speleothem Construction
Students discover how underground rock formations grow. They perform various activities based on grade level.
Curated OER
The Case of the Disappearing Frogs
Students complete an Internet based activity to investigate the case of the disappearing tadpoles. They discover the interrelationship of living things.
Curated OER
Bridge Cable Corrosion
Students investigate the corrosion of different materials in the lab. In this chemistry lesson, students construct a bridge considering different bridge designs. At the end of the lesson, they play the role of scientists and engineers...
California Academy of Science
Coral and Chemistry
Using cabbage juice as a pH indicator, future scientists explore the effect of increasing carbon dioxide on the pH of the ocean and relate it to the health of coral reefs. Ideal for an earth or environmental sciences course, this lesson...
Curated OER
DNA the Easy Way (and "Gram Stain" Without the Mess)
Students visualize DNA from cells and explain the basis and importance of the Gram-stain reaction and to perform the KOH test equivalent.
Curated OER
What is the Relationship Between DNA and Cancer?
High schoolers examine the structure and functions of DNA. They discover the effects radon has on one's DNA and how it leads to cancer. They discuss why DNA is so important to us.