Nucleic Acids: Decoding Heritable Information
Created byMichelle Renaud
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Nucleic Acids: Decoding Heritable Information

Grade 12ScienceBiology5 days
This project delves into the structure and function of nucleic acids, exploring how DNA and RNA store, replicate, and express heritable information. Students engage in hands-on activities such as building DNA models, creating animations of transcription and translation, and investigating mutation case studies. They also design models of gene regulation and simulate DNA replication to understand the central dogma of molecular biology and its implications for phenotypic variation and future generations.
DNA ReplicationGene ExpressionMutationsTranscriptionTranslationNucleic AcidsDNA and RNA
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Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How do the structures of DNA and RNA enable the storage, replication, and expression of heritable information, and how can alterations in these processes lead to phenotypic variations and impact future generations?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • How does the structure of DNA and RNA relate to their functions in storing and transmitting genetic information?
  • What are the key differences between DNA and RNA, and how do these differences impact their roles in the cell?
  • How does DNA replication ensure the accurate transmission of genetic information from one generation to the next?
  • In what ways do mutations in DNA affect protein synthesis and ultimately influence an organism's phenotype?
  • How do regulatory mechanisms control gene expression and ensure proper cell function?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Students will be able to describe the structure of DNA and RNA, including the components and bonds.
  • Students will be able to explain the process of DNA replication and its significance in maintaining genetic information.
  • Students will be able to compare and contrast the roles of DNA and RNA in protein synthesis.
  • Students will be able to analyze how mutations in DNA can lead to phenotypic variations.
  • Students will be able to evaluate the regulatory mechanisms that control gene expression.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

The Mysterious DNA Message

Students receive a cryptic message encoded in a DNA sequence, supposedly from a scientist working to cure a genetic disease. The message details a breakthrough but abruptly ends, hinting at sabotage or a sudden disappearance. Students must decode the message and analyze the (simulated) scientist's research to uncover the secrets and continue their work.

The DNA Forensics Challenge

A mock 'crime scene' is set up in the classroom, featuring biological samples (simulated, of course) and evidence suggesting a dispute over intellectual property related to a groundbreaking genetic engineering technique. Students act as forensic scientists, using their knowledge of nucleic acids to analyze the samples, identify suspects, and determine what happened.

The Gene Therapy Race

The class is divided into teams, each representing a pharmaceutical company racing to develop a new gene therapy treatment for a fictional genetic disorder. Each team receives partial and conflicting data about the disorder's genetic basis and must collaborate (or compete!) to synthesize the correct treatment strategy. This activity simulates the real-world challenges of drug development and the importance of accurate nucleic acid understanding.

The Adaptive Plant Mystery

Students are presented with a seemingly impossible scenario: a species of plant has evolved to rapidly adapt to any environmental condition. They examine samples and are challenged to explain how this is possible using their knowledge of nucleic acids, gene expression, and mutation. This sets the stage for a deeper dive into the processes that allow for heritable variation.

The DNA Data Storage Challenge

The class participates in a 'design thinking' challenge where they must create a new form of data storage using DNA. They will learn about the possibilities of DNA data storage and grapple with the ethical and practical implications of this emerging technology. The challenge promotes both creative problem-solving and critical thinking about the future applications of nucleic acid research.
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Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

DNA Structure Builders

Students will create a 3D model of a DNA double helix using everyday materials to visualize its structure.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research and sketch the basic structure of DNA, including nucleotides, sugar-phosphate backbone, and hydrogen bonds.
2. Gather materials such as colored candies, pipe cleaners, or digital modeling software.
3. Construct the 3D model, ensuring accurate representation of the double helix and its components.
4. Label all parts of the model, explaining the type of bonds and their significance.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA physical or digital 3D model of DNA with labeled components (nucleotides, sugar-phosphate backbone, hydrogen bonds).

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsLearning Goal: Students will be able to describe the structure of DNA and RNA, including the components and bonds.
Activity 2

Transcription Translation Animation

Students will create an animated video or infographic that illustrates the processes of transcription and translation, highlighting the roles of DNA and RNA.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research the processes of transcription and translation, focusing on the roles of mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA.
2. Develop a storyboard or outline for the animation or infographic.
3. Create visuals and write explanatory text for each step of the process.
4. Assemble the animation or infographic, ensuring clarity and accuracy in depicting the roles of DNA and RNA.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityAn animated video or detailed infographic explaining transcription and translation, with clear distinctions between the roles of DNA and RNA.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsLearning Goal: Students will be able to compare and contrast the roles of DNA and RNA in protein synthesis.
Activity 3

Mutation Case Studies

Students will investigate different types of mutations (point, frameshift, chromosomal) and their effects on protein structure and function, using case studies of genetic disorders.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Learn about different types of mutations and their effects on DNA sequences.
2. Choose a genetic disorder caused by a known mutation.
3. Research the specific mutation responsible for the disorder, its impact on protein synthesis, and the resulting phenotypic effects.
4. Write a report summarizing the findings, including diagrams of the mutation and its consequences.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA research report on a specific genetic disorder caused by a mutation, detailing the type of mutation, its effect on protein synthesis, and the resulting phenotype.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsLearning Goal: Students will be able to analyze how mutations in DNA can lead to phenotypic variations.
Activity 4

Gene Regulation Models

Students will design and present a model of a regulatory mechanism (e.g., operon, transcription factors) to explain how gene expression is controlled in response to environmental signals.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research different regulatory mechanisms that control gene expression.
2. Choose a specific mechanism (e.g., lac operon) to model.
3. Design a model that illustrates how the regulatory mechanism works, including the key components and their interactions.
4. Present the model to the class, explaining how it controls gene expression in response to specific signals.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA presentation (physical model, digital simulation, or oral presentation) explaining a specific regulatory mechanism and its role in controlling gene expression.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsLearning Goal: Students will be able to evaluate the regulatory mechanisms that control gene expression.
Activity 5

Replication Reaction

Students will simulate DNA replication using a hands-on activity to understand the roles of enzymes and the concept of semi-conservative replication.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Learn about the enzymes involved in DNA replication (e.g., helicase, polymerase, ligase) and their functions.
2. Use colored beads or building blocks to represent DNA strands and enzymes.
3. Model the steps of DNA replication, showing how the DNA strands separate and new strands are synthesized.
4. Document the process with diagrams and written explanations, emphasizing the semi-conservative nature of replication.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed written explanation of the DNA replication process, supported by a visual representation (diagram or animation) of the steps.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsLearning Goal: Students will be able to explain the process of DNA replication and its significance in maintaining genetic information.
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Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

Nucleic Acids Portfolio Rubric

Category 1

DNA Model Construction

Assesses the accuracy, clarity, and overall quality of the 3D DNA model.
Criterion 1

Structural Accuracy

Accuracy of the 3D model and correctness of labeled components (nucleotides, sugar-phosphate backbone, hydrogen bonds)

Exemplary
4 Points

The model accurately represents the 3D structure of DNA, with all components correctly placed and labeled, demonstrating a deep understanding of molecular structure and bonding.

Proficient
3 Points

The model is mostly accurate, with a few minor errors in placement or labeling. Demonstrates a good understanding of DNA structure.

Developing
2 Points

The model has several inaccuracies or omissions in the structure or labeling. Shows a basic understanding of DNA structure but needs improvement.

Beginning
1 Points

The model is significantly flawed, with major inaccuracies and missing components. Shows a limited understanding of DNA structure.

Criterion 2

Labeling and Explanations

Clarity and thoroughness of the labels and explanations, detailing the types of bonds and their significance.

Exemplary
4 Points

Labels are clear, concise, and comprehensive, providing detailed explanations of the types of bonds (phosphodiester, hydrogen) and their importance in maintaining DNA structure and function.

Proficient
3 Points

Labels are mostly clear and explain the basic types of bonds and their significance. Minor improvements could be made for clarity or thoroughness.

Developing
2 Points

Labels are present but lack clarity or thoroughness. Explanations of bond types and their significance are incomplete or partially inaccurate.

Beginning
1 Points

Labels are missing or unclear. Explanations of bond types and their significance are absent or significantly flawed.

Criterion 3

Craftsmanship and Presentation

Overall craftsmanship and presentation of the model, showing attention to detail and effort in constructing the 3D representation.

Exemplary
4 Points

The model is exceptionally well-crafted, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail and outstanding effort in constructing a visually appealing and informative 3D representation of DNA.

Proficient
3 Points

The model is well-crafted, showing good attention to detail and effort in creating a clear and presentable 3D representation of DNA.

Developing
2 Points

The model shows some effort but lacks attention to detail in certain areas. Craftsmanship could be improved for better clarity and presentation.

Beginning
1 Points

The model is poorly crafted, lacking attention to detail and showing minimal effort in construction. Presentation is unclear and uninformative.

Category 2

Transcription Translation Explanation

Evaluates the accuracy, clarity, and creativity of the animation or infographic explaining transcription and translation.
Criterion 1

Process Accuracy

Accuracy in depicting the steps of transcription and translation, including the roles of mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA.

Exemplary
4 Points

The animation/infographic accurately and comprehensively depicts all steps of transcription and translation, demonstrating a deep understanding of the roles of mRNA, tRNA, and rRNA in protein synthesis.

Proficient
3 Points

The animation/infographic is mostly accurate, with minor omissions or simplifications. Demonstrates a good understanding of transcription and translation.

Developing
2 Points

The animation/infographic contains some inaccuracies or significant omissions. Shows a basic understanding but needs improvement in depicting the details of transcription and translation.

Beginning
1 Points

The animation/infographic is significantly flawed, with major inaccuracies and missing steps. Demonstrates a limited understanding of transcription and translation.

Criterion 2

Clarity and Understandability

Clarity of the visuals and explanatory text, making the processes understandable to a general audience.

Exemplary
4 Points

Visuals and text are exceptionally clear, concise, and engaging, making the complex processes of transcription and translation easily understandable to a broad audience.

Proficient
3 Points

Visuals and text are mostly clear and easy to understand, with minor improvements possible for enhanced clarity or engagement.

Developing
2 Points

Visuals or text lack clarity in certain areas, making it challenging to fully understand the processes. Improvements are needed for better communication.

Beginning
1 Points

Visuals and text are unclear, confusing, or missing, making it difficult to understand the processes of transcription and translation.

Criterion 3

Creativity and Design

Creativity and originality in the design and presentation of the animation or infographic.

Exemplary
4 Points

The animation/infographic demonstrates exceptional creativity and originality in design and presentation, offering a unique and engaging perspective on transcription and translation.

Proficient
3 Points

The animation/infographic shows good creativity and originality in its design and presentation. It is visually appealing and effectively communicates the processes.

Developing
2 Points

The animation/infographic lacks originality or creativity in its design and presentation. It is functional but could be more engaging.

Beginning
1 Points

The animation/infographic is uninspired and lacks creativity in design and presentation. It is visually unappealing and ineffective in communicating the processes.

Category 3

Genetic Disorder Report

Assesses the depth of research, accuracy, and clarity of the report on a specific genetic disorder caused by a mutation.
Criterion 1

Research Depth

Thoroughness of the research on the chosen genetic disorder, including the specific mutation and its impact on protein synthesis and phenotype.

Exemplary
4 Points

The report demonstrates thorough and comprehensive research on the chosen genetic disorder, including a detailed analysis of the specific mutation, its impact on protein synthesis, and resulting phenotypic effects, showing evidence of consulting multiple credible sources.

Proficient
3 Points

The report is well-researched and provides a clear explanation of the mutation, its impact, and the resulting phenotype. Some additional details or sources could enhance the report.

Developing
2 Points

The report includes some research but lacks depth or detail in explaining the mutation, its impact, or the resulting phenotype. More research is needed for a comprehensive understanding.

Beginning
1 Points

The report shows minimal research and lacks a clear explanation of the mutation, its impact, or the resulting phenotype. Significant research is required.

Criterion 2

Mutation Description

Accuracy in describing the type of mutation (point, frameshift, chromosomal) and its consequences.

Exemplary
4 Points

The report accurately and precisely describes the type of mutation (point, frameshift, chromosomal) and its consequences on the DNA sequence, protein structure, and cellular function, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of molecular genetics.

Proficient
3 Points

The report accurately describes the type of mutation and its main consequences, with only minor inaccuracies or omissions.

Developing
2 Points

The report contains some inaccuracies or simplifications in describing the type of mutation or its consequences. Improvements are needed for better accuracy.

Beginning
1 Points

The report is significantly inaccurate or unclear in describing the type of mutation and its consequences. A more accurate and detailed explanation is required.

Criterion 3

Report Clarity and Organization

Clarity and organization of the report, including the use of diagrams to illustrate the mutation and its consequences.

Exemplary
4 Points

The report is exceptionally clear, well-organized, and visually appealing, using diagrams effectively to illustrate the mutation and its consequences. The report is easy to follow and demonstrates excellent communication skills.

Proficient
3 Points

The report is clear and well-organized, with diagrams that effectively support the explanation of the mutation and its consequences. Minor improvements could be made for enhanced clarity or visual appeal.

Developing
2 Points

The report lacks clarity or organization in certain areas, making it challenging to follow the explanation of the mutation and its consequences. Diagrams may be unclear or ineffective.

Beginning
1 Points

The report is disorganized, unclear, and lacks effective diagrams. It is difficult to understand the mutation and its consequences.

Category 4

Gene Regulation Explanation

Evaluates the accuracy, clarity, and creativity of the model explaining a specific regulatory mechanism.
Criterion 1

Model Accuracy

Accuracy in modeling the chosen regulatory mechanism, including key components and their interactions.

Exemplary
4 Points

The model accurately and comprehensively represents the chosen regulatory mechanism, including all key components and their interactions. Demonstrates a deep understanding of gene regulation and molecular interactions.

Proficient
3 Points

The model is mostly accurate, with minor simplifications or omissions. Demonstrates a good understanding of the regulatory mechanism.

Developing
2 Points

The model contains some inaccuracies or significant omissions. Shows a basic understanding but needs improvement in depicting the details of the regulatory mechanism.

Beginning
1 Points

The model is significantly flawed, with major inaccuracies and missing components. Demonstrates a limited understanding of the regulatory mechanism.

Criterion 2

Presentation Clarity

Clarity of the presentation, explaining how the regulatory mechanism controls gene expression in response to specific signals.

Exemplary
4 Points

The presentation is exceptionally clear, concise, and engaging, effectively explaining how the regulatory mechanism controls gene expression in response to specific signals. The presenter demonstrates excellent communication skills and a thorough understanding of the topic.

Proficient
3 Points

The presentation is mostly clear and easy to understand, with minor improvements possible for enhanced clarity or engagement.

Developing
2 Points

The presentation lacks clarity in certain areas, making it challenging to fully understand the regulatory mechanism and its control of gene expression. Improvements are needed for better communication.

Beginning
1 Points

The presentation is unclear, confusing, or missing key information, making it difficult to understand the regulatory mechanism and its control of gene expression.

Criterion 3

Model Design

Creativity and innovation in the design of the model (physical or digital simulation).

Exemplary
4 Points

The model demonstrates exceptional creativity and innovation in its design, offering a unique and engaging perspective on the regulatory mechanism. The design is well-executed and effectively communicates the key concepts.

Proficient
3 Points

The model shows good creativity and innovation in its design. It is visually appealing and effectively communicates the key concepts.

Developing
2 Points

The model lacks originality or creativity in its design. It is functional but could be more engaging.

Beginning
1 Points

The model is uninspired and lacks creativity in design. It is visually unappealing and ineffective in communicating the key concepts.

Category 5

DNA Replication Explanation

Assesses the accuracy, clarity, and effectiveness of the explanation and visual representation of the DNA replication process.
Criterion 1

Enzyme Description

Accuracy in describing the enzymes involved in DNA replication (e.g., helicase, polymerase, ligase) and their functions.

Exemplary
4 Points

The explanation accurately and comprehensively describes all enzymes involved in DNA replication and their functions, demonstrating a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying DNA replication.

Proficient
3 Points

The explanation is mostly accurate, with minor omissions or simplifications. Demonstrates a good understanding of the enzymes and their functions.

Developing
2 Points

The explanation contains some inaccuracies or significant omissions. Shows a basic understanding but needs improvement in depicting the details of the enzymes and their functions.

Beginning
1 Points

The explanation is significantly flawed, with major inaccuracies and missing enzymes. Demonstrates a limited understanding of DNA replication.

Criterion 2

Process Explanation

Clarity and detail in the written explanation of the DNA replication process, emphasizing the semi-conservative nature of replication.

Exemplary
4 Points

The written explanation is exceptionally clear, detailed, and engaging, effectively explaining the DNA replication process and emphasizing the semi-conservative nature of replication. The explanation demonstrates excellent scientific writing skills.

Proficient
3 Points

The written explanation is mostly clear and detailed, with minor improvements possible for enhanced clarity or engagement.

Developing
2 Points

The written explanation lacks clarity or detail in certain areas, making it challenging to fully understand the DNA replication process and the semi-conservative nature of replication. Improvements are needed for better communication.

Beginning
1 Points

The written explanation is unclear, confusing, or missing key information, making it difficult to understand the DNA replication process and the semi-conservative nature of replication.

Criterion 3

Visual Representation

Effectiveness of the visual representation (diagram or animation) in illustrating the steps of DNA replication.

Exemplary
4 Points

The visual representation (diagram or animation) is exceptionally effective in illustrating the steps of DNA replication, demonstrating a clear and accurate understanding of the process. The visuals are well-designed and enhance the explanation.

Proficient
3 Points

The visual representation effectively supports the written explanation and clearly illustrates the steps of DNA replication. Minor improvements could be made for enhanced clarity or visual appeal.

Developing
2 Points

The visual representation is somewhat unclear or ineffective in illustrating the steps of DNA replication. Improvements are needed for better support of the written explanation.

Beginning
1 Points

The visual representation is unclear, confusing, or missing key steps, making it difficult to understand the DNA replication process.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

How has your understanding of nucleic acids and their role in heritable information evolved during this unit?

Text
Required
Question 2

Which activity (DNA Structure Builders, Transcription Translation Animation, Mutation Case Studies, Gene Regulation Models, Replication Reaction) was most helpful for your learning, and why?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
DNA Structure Builders
Transcription Translation Animation
Mutation Case Studies
Gene Regulation Models
Replication Reaction
Question 3

To what extent do you feel prepared to explain the central dogma of molecular biology (DNA -> RNA -> Protein) to someone unfamiliar with the topic?

Scale
Required
Question 4

What is one real-world application of nucleic acid research that you found particularly interesting, and what are its potential benefits or drawbacks?

Text
Required
Question 5

What questions do you still have about nucleic acids, gene expression, or heritable information?

Text
Optional