Common Misconceptions:
Overcoming Misconceptions:
Since protein synthesis is a topic that is difficult to visualize, providing students with plenty of videos and simulations is important for them to be able to grasp the concepts and gain a more holistic understanding and avoid the development of misconceptions.
- A common misconception regarding protein synthesis is that its purpose is to make amino acids. Since they work hand in hand, students are always hearing the terms used together. As a result, students often lose track of where amino acids originate from, and the purpose of protein synthesis.
- Once synthesized on the ribosome, proteins remain in their folded state. Students often believe that after a protein is released from the ribosomes, there are no further modifications that occur.
- All mutations have a drastic change effect on protein structure. Often, students hear the word mutation, and associate it with having a tremendous effect on the protein and its function. This is likely due to the fact that students begin learning about mutations after already being exposed to the term from a non-scientific perspective. In other words, they hear ‘mutation’ in cartoons and the media, and understand it to mean that a person develops into a highly disfigured being.
- All mutations have negative effects. This misconception is often coupled with the one above. Likely for the same reasons, students approach mutations with the belief that all mutations are bad and result in highly disfigured or diseased beings.
Overcoming Misconceptions:
- Reiterate to students the purpose of protein synthesis. When discussing amino acids, make it clear to them that they are the building blocks of proteins. We are not synthesizing them when we are in translation; we are using them to make proteins.
- Review the purpose and functions of proteins. Explain to students that they are still able to undergo changes after being released from the ribosomes.
- When discussing mutations, make it clear that due to the overlap and redundancy in the genetic code, it is possible for mutations to occur without a drastic change following. Clearly outline the difference between a drastic mutation and one with less significance. Provide students with real-world examples of the different types of mutations
- Similar to the mutation above, it is important for students to realize that not all mutations are bad. In fact, many are good. Provide students with examples of good mutations (ex. evolution).
Since protein synthesis is a topic that is difficult to visualize, providing students with plenty of videos and simulations is important for them to be able to grasp the concepts and gain a more holistic understanding and avoid the development of misconceptions.