Objective: To understand the structure and function of DNA in living

organisms.

Subject: Biology

Grade Level: Grade 12

Learning across curriculum:

1. Chemistry - Understanding the chemical composition of DNA.

2. Physics - Exploring the role of energy in DNA replication.

3. History - Investigating the discovery and development of DNA as a scientific

concept.

Review Motivation:

1. Show a short video clip highlighting the importance of DNA in genetic inheritance.

2. Conduct a class discussion about the impact of DNA research on medical

advancements.

3. Present a real-life case study where DNA evidence was used to solve a crime.

Activity 1: DNA Extraction Experiment

Materials: Strawberries, dishwashing liquid, salt, rubbing alcohol, coffee filter,

test tubes, pipettes

Instructions:

1. In groups, students will extract DNA from strawberries using household items.

2. Students will follow a step-by-step procedure provided by the teacher.

3. Students will record their observations and discuss the process.

Rubrics:
Criteria: Proper execution of the experiment

Points: 10

Assessment Questions:

1. What is the purpose of using salt in the DNA extraction process?

2. Explain the significance of using rubbing alcohol in the experiment.

Activity 2: DNA Replication Simulation

Materials: Paper strips representing DNA strands, colored markers

Instructions:

1. Each student will receive a paper strip representing a DNA strand.

2. Students will simulate the process of DNA replication by using colored markers to
create complementary strands.

3. Students will compare the original and replicated strands.

Rubrics:

Criteria: Accuracy of DNA replication simulation

Points: 15

Assessment Questions:

1. Describe the importance of DNA replication in the process of cell division.

2. How does the complementary base pairing rule contribute to DNA replication?

Activity 3: DNA Structure Model

Materials: Colored beads, pipe cleaners

Instructions:

1. Students will create a 3D model of DNA using colored beads and pipe cleaners.

2. Students will accurately represent the structure of DNA, including nucleotides,

sugar-phosphate backbone, and hydrogen bonds.

3. Students will present their models to the class and explain the significance of DNA
structure.

Rubrics:

Criteria: Accuracy and clarity of DNA structure model

Points: 20

Assessment Questions:

1. What is the role of hydrogen bonds in maintaining the structure of DNA?

2. Explain how the double helix structure of DNA allows for efficient storage and
transmission of genetic information.

Activity 4: DNA Transcription and Translation

Materials: DNA template strand cards, RNA nucleotide cards, amino acid
cards, tRNA cards
Instructions:

1. Each student will receive a DNA template strand card.

2. Students will transcribe the DNA sequence into RNA using RNA nucleotide cards.

3. Students will then translate the RNA sequence into an amino acid sequence using
the genetic code.

4. Students will use tRNA cards to match each codon with the corresponding amino
acid.

Rubrics:

Criteria: Accuracy of DNA transcription and translation

Points: 15

Assessment Questions:

1. Explain the process of DNA transcription and its role in protein synthesis.

2. How does the genetic code ensure the correct translation of RNA into amino
acids?

Activity 5: DNA Mutations Investigation

Materials: DNA mutation cards, DNA replication materials from Activity 2

Instructions:

1. Each student will receive a DNA mutation card, representing a specific mutation.

2. Students will simulate DNA replication using the materials from Activity 2.

3. Students will identify and analyze the impact of the mutation on the replicated
DNA strand.

Rubrics:
Criteria: Identification and analysis of DNA mutations

Points: 15

Assessment Questions:

1. Describe the different types of DNA mutations and their potential consequences.

2. How can DNA mutations lead to genetic disorders or variations in a population?

Activity 6: DNA Technology and Genetic Engineering

Materials: DNA technology articles, computer access for research

Instructions:

1. Students will research and read articles about DNA technology and genetic
engineering.

2. Students will create a presentation or infographic summarizing the applications

and ethical considerations of DNA technology.

3. Students will present their findings to the class and engage in a discussion about
the benefits and concerns surrounding genetic engineering.

Rubrics:

Criteria: Content and presentation quality of DNA technology research

Points: 20

Assessment Questions:

1. What are some examples of DNA technology applications in medicine, agriculture,

and forensic science?

2. Discuss the ethical implications of genetic engineering and its potential impact on
society.
Note: Teachers can modify the rubrics and assessment questions based on
their specific learning objectives and desired outcomes for the students.

Analysis:

After completing each activity, students will analyze their findings and discuss the
significance of DNA in living organisms. They will also compare and contrast the
different activities to deepen their understanding of DNA structure and function.

Abstraction:

Students will summarize their learning by identifying the key concepts related to DNA
structure and function. They will create concept maps or diagrams to illustrate their
understanding.

Application:

Students will be given a real-life problem where they need to analyze DNA evidence
to determine the genetic relationship between individuals involved in a paternity
case. They will apply their knowledge of DNA structure and function to interpret the
results and provide a conclusion.

Assessment:

Teachers can assess the learning of students through various methods, such as
written quizzes, oral presentations, and group discussions. They can also evaluate
the accuracy and clarity of students' concept maps or diagrams.

Assignment:

Students will be assigned a research project where they need to investigate the
ethical implications of DNA technology in fields like forensics, agriculture, and
medicine. They will present their findings in a written report and a class presentation.