LEARN NC

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

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.

Resources aligned to this objective

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.

Lesson plans on the web

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 understand how science, people, ethics, and history all fit together. (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 9–12 Science)
Provider: American Association for the Advancement of Science
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. (Learn more)
Format: lesson plan (grade 9–12 Science)
Provider: American Association for the Advancement of Science
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)
Provider: National Geographic