First, we built amino acids and nucleotides with the Lab Aid Biomolecules Kits. The kids also build DNA and Transcription with Lab Aid Models of DNA and Transcription. (The carbons in the kit tend to break during Replication. I sent copies of my purchase order and photos of broken carbons to Lab Aids. They sent back several dozen replacements. The Biomolecule kits are much sturdier. I've used my older kit for years without breakage.) The kits come with excellent worksheets. The instructions have the kids build the molecules and answer questions.
Homework included a transcription translation coloring sheet. Next, the kids do this DNA puzzle piece activity using these templates. Make loads of copies of each of the three templates. The first step is to use the DNA pieces (four or five) to demonstrate DNA replication. Next, one uses both DNA and RNA pieces to model transcription. Finally, the same RNA sequence (mRNA) is copied to tRNA. The idea is to understand A-T or A-U and G-C (Nucleotide base pairs) This takes awhile. Once the kids have these models, they use a DNA strand to make a double helix, mRNA, and tRNA with pipe cleaners (chenille sticks) and pony beads.
This transcription translation worksheet is my final quiz. I used the DNA strand for the bead activity. Lastly, the kids write paragraphs explaining the differences between DNA and RNA, describe Replication, Transcription, and Translation, including the location. (I emphasize that DNA Replication occurs in the nucleus during mitosis as part of the cell cycle. Transcription also occurs in the nucleus. Translation is in the cytoplasm at the ribosome.) The kids also explain codons and anticodons. Whew! Next week we start plants. See below our photos.
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