High schoolers discuss a bacterial experiment they previously performed and complete a pre-assessment. They participate in a lecture discussion given by the teacher through PowerPoint and then complete a cartoon worksheet and...

Tenth graders research the history and discovery of DNA. Using their text, they label a basic DNA structure and the composition of genes. They explain how RNA and DNA differ from one other and discuss the processes of transcription and...

Students compare the process of protein synthesis in an analogy. They simulate the process of protein synthesis kinesthetically using index cards and write a paragraph to explain the process.

Students explore the progression of discoveries that have led to the genetics knowledge that scientists currently have. In groups, students research scientists that have made important contributions to understanding the molecules behind...

Third graders experience reading in the content areas by reading about heredity and practicing summarizing the reading.

Students investigate the protein cytochrome c in an attempt to use its genetic chemistry to study possible evolutionary relationships between organisms. The instructional activity integrates technology with the use computers to perform...

High Schoolers complete a variety of activities as they examine the ethics of (and take a position concerning) genetically modified organisms in the field of agriculture. They complete a PowerPoint demonstration to go along with the unit.

Students use multicolored soft candies (gumdrops and candy orange slices) and toothpicks to create models of DNA structures. They discuss the fact that DNA must copy itself before splitting into two cells. Students demonstrate this by...

Students explore the uses of sequence alignment.  In this DNA lesson students complete several experiments on sequencing and algorithms. 

Students apply measurement skills using the metric system. They explain the process of isolating DNA from other cell contents. They apply knowledge of cell structure to explain the process of isolating DNA.

Students work with a partner to answer any unanswer questions on their review sheet. They work in groups of 4 to make flash cards as study aides. Students play a review game for the remaining of the class period. The winning team...

Students construct a 3-D model of DNA. They demonstrate an awareness of base pairs in written work and in a model. Students model DNA replication using edible materials. They record concluding thoughts in their science notebooks.

Students explore DNA and restriction enzymes using fragments of DNA separated by electrophoresis on an agarose gel. They analyze the results to see "whodunit".

Students study using analogies between common items or occurrences and science concepts. They use the analogy of cookie recipes to that of the DNA "recipes" for living things to help us explain more about mutations.

Young scholars participate in a teacher-guided activity to teach about protein synthesis. Student roles include one person as the DNA molecule, another is a single stranded sequence of complementary mRNA.

Seventh graders explore the function of a cell and cell division.  In this investigative lesson students construct a 3-D model of a DNA molecule.

Students define the key terms that are the structure and function of DNA. In this genetics lesson students complete a lab activity in which they construct a model DNA structure.

Students practice writing and decoding secret messages before discussing DNA and its role as a code for making proteins. They translate DNA into RNA and identify the sequence of amino acids to find a secret message. An interactive...

Students examine the concept of homology by observing their shoes and those of their classmates. They summarize the observations of everyone's shoes relating it to chromosomes in cells. They share their observations with the class.

Students 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. Then they...

Students discuss the risks and benefits associated with biotechnology. In this biotechnology lesson plan, students discuss the role of genes in the body and brainstorm ethical issues relating to biotechnology. They read about an ethical...

High schoolers relate the number and length of generations in their living family members to the number of generations that have passed since specific events in recorded history. They then apply this time conceptualization to the number...

Students compare the amino acid sequences in cytochrome-c for a variety of organisms and use this information to infer evolutionary relationships. Students investigate the role of homeobox genes and what this indicates about the...

Students demonstrate a working knowledge of cell interactions such as DNA replication, protein synthesis (transcription and translation), through active participation in a cooperative group.