Click on the images to take you to the links!
(Some ideas were taken from DNA Learning Center and Debating DNA webquest.)
(Some ideas were taken from DNA Learning Center and Debating DNA webquest.)
01. Lesson Hooks:
TeacherTube:
This is a cartoon video of DNA. The artworks you see throughout the video are all created by students. Check it out by clicking the image!
02. Bring
a model of DNA to demonstrate to the students how the stacking of the
nitrogenous bases in DNA between two anti-parallel sugar-phosphate
backbones would look like in three dimensions.
03. Explore
scientific theories relating to the formation of the DNA molecule and the
beginning of life on earth using the film “The Birth of Earth and Ancient
Oceans” by the Discovery Channel.
04. Students
can bring in examples of the double helix that are present in pictures,
periodical clippings, and movies.
It would be an interesting way to generate discussions about the
importance of DNA, and how the DNA molecule has become a part of our
everyday lives.
05. Research
historical events and discoveries in history that were possible because of
the knowledge we have regarding the structure of the DNA molecule. Encourage your students to be creative
with their research.
If you place your mouse over the images, information about the links will show up.
If you place your mouse over the images, information about the links will show up.
Resources for students (check it out by clicking on the images):
06. Students will start thinking like a forensic scientist. They will extract (virtual) DNA, create a (virtual) DNA fingerprint, and analyze DNA evidence in a crime. They will learn about the many uses of DNA fingerprinting, evaluate the process of obtaining a DNA fingerprint, and decide whether they agree with this practice.
Worksheets with the questions will be provided to the students and return by the next day. They are:
1) Brainstorm what you have learned about the process of DNA analysis?
2) For what is DNA fingerprinting used?
3) What are the benefits of DNA fingerprinting?
4) What are the concerns about DNA fingerprinting and DNA analysis?
You can download the worksheet below!
Worksheets with the questions will be provided to the students and return by the next day. They are:
1) Brainstorm what you have learned about the process of DNA analysis?
2) For what is DNA fingerprinting used?
3) What are the benefits of DNA fingerprinting?
4) What are the concerns about DNA fingerprinting and DNA analysis?
You can download the worksheet below!
forensic_scientist_worksheet.docx | |
File Size: | 11 kb |
File Type: | docx |
Information is provided in the links below to help students answer the questions. Some of the links are interactive, some are video, and some require reading. Students will also consider the process and uses of DNA analysis when brainstorming their response to the discussion question listed below which will be discussed the next class.
We will begin our discussion with the following question: Should all citizens be required to submit their DNA to the government for analysis and fingerprinting?
If you place your mouse over the images, information about the links will show up. You could read about the links before you view it.
We will begin our discussion with the following question: Should all citizens be required to submit their DNA to the government for analysis and fingerprinting?
If you place your mouse over the images, information about the links will show up. You could read about the links before you view it.
Resources for students:
07. Useful resources for teachers
Education (powered by teachers' domain):
An award-winning source for standards-based classroom resources in science, technology and engineering, from NOVA and other public television series.
Teachers' Domain: Digital Media for the Classroom and Professional Development
Teachers' Domain is a free digital media service for educational use from public broadcasting and its partners. You’ll find thousands of media resources, support materials, and tools for classroom lessons, individualized learning programs, and teacher professional learning communities.
08. Can
do an interactive lesson about DNA with a Smart Board or just using a
Smart Notebook with a laptop. Share resources through Smart Exchange.