February 5-6

DNA Stations Lab: Structure & Function of DNA 🧬

This student-led station activity will help you explore the structure, function, and discovery of DNA through hands-on and interactive tasks. You will rotate through eight different stations, each designed to deepen your understanding of genetics and heredity.

📅 Due Date: February 6th at the End of Class

What You’ll Do:

🔬 Station 1: DNA Structure Video

• Watch a video on the structure of DNA and answer comprehension questions.

🧩 Station 2: DNA Modeling Activity

• Use an interactive model to visualize DNA’s double-helix structure and answer related questions.

🧬 Station 3: Build a DNA Molecule

• Cut and arrange nucleotides (A, T, C, G) following Chargaff’s base-pairing rule to construct a DNA strand.

🧾 Station 4: Base Pairing Practice

• Write complementary DNA strands using the base-pairing rules (A=T, C=G).

• Create your own DNA sequence and determine its complementary strand.

📜 Station 5: Discovery of DNA Timeline

• Read about key scientists, such as Rosalind Franklin, James Watson, and Francis Crick.

• Create a timeline showcasing major discoveries in DNA history.

🎨 Station 6: DNA Coloring & Labeling

• Color-code and label a DNA diagram, identifying key components like sugar-phosphate backbones, nitrogenous bases, and hydrogen bonds.

📖 Station 7: Roles of DNA

• Read about the three main functions of DNA:

  1. Storing genetic information

  2. Replicating genetic material

  3. Transmitting genetic traits

• Complete a graphic organizer summarizing these roles.

❓ Station 8: Q&A Activity

• Write your own quiz questions about DNA, including multiple-choice, true/false, and short-answer questions.

• Answer your own questions to test your understanding!

Why This Matters:

This hands-on activity will help you understand DNA’s role in life, from how traits are inherited to how cells function. It will also give you insight into the scientists and discoveries that shaped modern genetics.

💡 Remember: This assignment is due February 6th at the end of class, so be sure to complete all station activities and answer all questions thoroughly.

Happy exploring! 🔬🧬