ERIC Number: EJ745339
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2006-Aug
Pages: 6
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0002-7685
EISSN: N/A
Demonstration: Genetic Jewelry
Atkins, Thomas; Roderick, Joyce
American Biology Teacher, v68 n6 p80-85 Aug 2006
In order for students to understand genetics and evolution, they must first understand the structure of the DNA molecule. The function of DNA proceeds from its unique structure, a structure beautifully adapted for information storage, transcription, translation into amino acid sequences, replication, and time travel. The activity described in this article develops understanding by modeling DNA structure in a simple and colorful manner. The model includes details of the purine and pyrimidine nitrogen base pairing and the relative positions of the sugar-phosphate backbone. The hands-on construction of the DNA model creates a strong image of its structure in the student's mind. Sixth graders through graduate students, including teachers in the workshops, have all successfully constructed the molecule. They reinvent the process and make other wonderful jewelry, bracelets, necklaces, and even tree ornaments. It is an excellent teaching tool, and adornment, as well.
Descriptors: Demonstrations (Educational), Science Instruction, Genetics, Hands on Science, Evolution, Molecular Structure, Learning Strategies, Inservice Teacher Education, Instructional Materials, Lesson Plans, Elementary Secondary Education, Higher Education
National Association of Biology Teachers. 12030 Sunrise Valley Drive #110, Reston, VA 20191. Tel: 800-406-0775; Tel: 703-264-9696; Fax: 703-264-7778; e-mail: publication@nabt.org; Web site: http://www.nabt.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Elementary Secondary Education; Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A