NOVA RNA Lab Lesson Plan

Five percent of the weight of a human cell comes from RNA, while only one percent comes from DNA. The video explains what RNA is and how it relates to DNA. It also describes the importance of understanding RNA and the two types of RNA:...

Every single cell in the human body is packed with genetic material! A video presentation provides a thorough overview of the components of this genetic material. An engaging instructor defines DNA and RNA and discusses its structure and...

Scientists believe RNA is the origin of all life on Earth, carrying genetic information long before DNA developed. Viewers comprehend this idea as they learn the functions of RNA, DNA, and proteins. Evolution of RNA, cells, molecules,...

Viewers explore the structures of RNA and DNA and then learn how DNA replicates itself. The narrator explains the central dogma, showing how DNA is eventually translated into proteins, before briefly discussing genetic engineering. 

Don't leave genetics to the imagination! Demonstrate to your class the folding of RNA using a video animation. The animation shows the structure of RNA and how it folds on itself to create protein-like structures.

Messenger RNA, transfer RNA, and ribozymes ... the many faces of RNA. The structure of RNA makes it much more versatile than the very similar DNA. Learners view a slideshow presentation to learn all about the different forms and...

Folding a fitted sheet seems impossible, but folding RNA seems like a game. Viewers learn how they can help scientists prevent or cure diseases. It emphasizes the need for human help because computers struggle with these puzzles.

Molecular engineers play with RNA to develop new therapies that could save lives. Young scientists fold RNA into specific shapes using the pairing rules. They apply knowledge about the relative strength of bonds and shape-shifting RNA...

Try this quick, five question comprehension check over DNA, RNA, and protein. Each question has a hint available, as well as a self-checking feature.

For years, scientists believed tRNA was junk left over from larger RNA. Three scientists used different approaches to prove tRNA actually exists as the connection between DNA and protein. Learn about their experiments, their lives, and...