DNA and Genes

DNA molecules hold the secrets that make us unique. The fourth of 12 lessons explores the structure of DNA by building candy models. After building the models, young scientists break their models to begin the process of DNA replication....

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...

After viewing this presentation, students create a complete set of notes to support their learning of DNA replication. Each slide has information on a step in DNA synthesis process. The slides focus primarily on the processes rather than...

Young biologists explore the theories of DNA replication, learning about the Meselson-Stahl experiment and how it proved DNA replication through semiconservative replication. The video reviews the parts of DNA and then delves into DNA...

Don't leave anything to the imagination! Use an animation to demonstrate the replication of DNA. The animation shows how the double helix separates and then begins copying nucleotides to create a copy.

Students create a model of DNA and simulate replication with their models in an activity that uses licorice, colored marshmallows, and toothpicks. Students also label a diagram of replication and indicate major parts of the DNA molecule.

Animations are powerful tools for seeing things the eye cannot! A thorough lesson demonstration models DNA replication with a 3-D animation. The video demonstrates how enzymes first separate the original DNA and then copy the resulting...

Here is a cut and paste activity instructional activity designed for older students. They fill in the blank with information about the composition of DNA, then create a DNA strand with its complimentary nucleotide chain.

Did you know that your DNA can be damaged tens of thousands of times per day? Learn about the ways that damage to just one strand of your DNA can be fixed, or in extreme examples, result in genetic mutation such as cancer. 

Students describe the cell cycle. They make a connection between DNA replication and cell division. Students describe the parts of the cell that participate in cell division and the steps of cell division.