LEARN NC

K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Biology

Goal 3: The learner will develop an understanding of the continuity of life and the changes of organisms over time.

Objective 3.01. Analyze the molecular basis of heredity including:

  • DNA replication.
  • Protein synthesis (transcription, translation).
  • Gene regulation.

Additional related resources

We’re in the process of aligning our content for students to the Standard Course of Study. As we do, you’ll find it here.

Wall-to-wall project-based learning: A conversation with biology teacher Kelley Yonce
This article explains the process of project-based learning (PBL) as it is practiced by Kelley Yonce, a high-school biology teacher who uses PBL throughout the school year. Concrete guidelines for a DNA project are included, as well as rubrics, assessment criteria, and other relevant documents.
Format: article/best practice
By Dan Lewandowski.

General resources

Aligned lesson plans

Protein synthesis with words
This activity is aimed at helping students understand protein synthesis, DNA, mRNA, tRNA, ribosomes, and mutations by using words.
Format: lesson plan (grade 9–12 Science)
By Bert Wartski.
Marker-assisted selection
In this lesson students will learn about marker-assisted selection in trees. Marker-assisted selection is an indirect selection process where a trait of interest is selected based on a marker linked to a trait of interest. Students will conduct two labs. In one, they will extract DNA from a peach and in the other, they will use gel electrophoresis to test tree DNA for frost resistance.
Format: lesson plan (grade 9–12 English Language Arts and Science)
By Harold Mackin.

Resources on the web

Genographic: Permanent markers
In this Xpeditions lesson, one of a multi-part unit on the Genographic Project, students review background information about the basics of DNA and chromosomal structure. (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 9–11 Science and Social Studies)
Provided by: National Geographic
Extracting DNA
This lesson introduces DNA, genes, chromosomes, the chemicals that make up DNA. After the basic information, students will do an experiment in which they will separate out DNA from peas. Knowing that DNA can be separated will give them a base of understanding... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 9–12 Science)
Provided by: American Association for the Advancement of Science
DNA chips
Students conduct activities from a module called “DNA Chips: A Genetics Lab in the Palm of Your Hand.” This module is part of the National Institutes of Health Snapshots series, which focuses on a single area of biomedical research to help students... (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 9–12 Science)
Provided by: American Association for the Advancement of Science