Mechanisms of Genetics

This unit focuses on the structures and processes involved in protein synthesis. Students identify the components and function of DNA through investigating the protein synthesis processes and mutations. Students explain the purpose and process of transcription and translation. Students identify and illustrate DNA mutations and evaluate the significance of these changes through examining changes in transcription and translation. Students compare the functions of the types of biomolecules in the context of the protein synthesis processes.

ASSIGNMENT: Complete the virtual DNA extraction lab above.

1. Write 3-5 sentences about what DNA is and the uses of DNA extraction.

ASSIGNMENT: Watch the video on why RNA is just as cool as DNA.

1. Create a double-bubble map comparing and contrasting RNA and DNA.

ASSIGNMENT:

1. Watch the videos on protein synthesis.

2. Then, go to the dnai website and select 'Copying the Code' at the bottom of the screen. Go through the different tabs at the top of the screen, including "problem", "players", "pieces of the puzzle" and "putting it all together".

3. Repeat this for the other tabs on the bottom of the screen, including "reading the code" and "controlling the code".

4. Create and label a diagram illustrating the process of protein synthesis from a DNA sequence and ending with an amino acid sequence. Explain the purpose and all steps involved in transcription and translation. Your diagram may look a bit like a cartoon with multiple steps.

  • mRNA
  • tRNA
  • ribosome
  • nucleus
  • cytoplasm
  • amino acid
  • codon
  • anticodon
  • transcription
  • translation

ASSIGNMENT:

1. Use this video as a refresher to the process of protein synthesis.

2. Then, get a copy of the Color-by-amino-acid activity from me.

3. Complete the transcription and translation of your turkey and color with the traits it has.

ASSIGNMENT:

1. Take a piece of paper and divide it in thirds. Label the top of the sections "substitution," "insertion," and "deletion".

2. Watch the video on mutations and take notes about each mutation type. Make sure to include a drawing that shows each type of mutation, and classify each mutation as either "frameshift" or "point" mutations.

3. See me for a copy of mutations practice.

1. Go to the link above to complete a virtual lab over mutations.

2. Answer the journal questions when you've completed the virtual lab on the back side of your notes. Lab instructions will be on the left side of the screen, and there is a journal icon at the bottom of the lab screen that will have the questions you will need to answer.

Done early? See me about a protein synthesis lego lab.