The Genetic Code
Curriculum
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Aim:
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Use computer technology to investigate, describe, observe
and measure the chemical and structural properties
of DNA.
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Describe the chemical and structural properties of DNA, genes,
and chromosomes and their roles in determining hereditary traits.
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Read about and write biographical sketches of scientists
from ancient to modern times.
Rationale: to better understand the complexity
of DNA and the genetic code. It has been shown that an understanding of
genetic interactions requires an understanding of these interactions at
the submolecular level.
Audience and prerequisites:
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eighth grade to freshman biology students with the following
knowledge and skills;
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carbon chemistry basics [pretest]
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basic Internet research
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locate information on the WWW
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use selected "search engines"
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basic understanding of "key words"
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use software programs such as Netscape Composer, Netscape
Browser etc.
Subject matter:
DNA
Double helix
ladder
analogy
components
nucleotides
nitrogen base pairing
Human Genome Project
Scientists
Objectives:
State Goal 11: Have a Working Knowledge
of the Processes of Scientific Inquiry and Technological
Design to Investigate Questions, Conduct Experiments and Solve Problems.
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Use computer technology to investigate, describe, observe
and measure the chemical and structural properties
of DNA.
State Goal 12: Have A Working Knowledge
Of The Fundamental Concepts And Principles Of The
Life, Physical, And Earth/Space Sciences And Their Connections.
Describe the chemical and structural properties of DNA,
genes, and chromosomes and their roles in determining hereditary traits.
State Goal 13: Have a Working Knowledge of
the Relationships Among Science, Technology
, And Society In Historical And Contemporary Contexts.
Read about
and write biographical sketches of scientists from ancient to modern times.
Instructional plan: The teacher facilitates the
learning process by guiding students through the activities, by solving
technical problems and by evaluating the writing/multimedia projects.
Activities:
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DNA components
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nucleotides
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nitrogen base pairing
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ladder analogy
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Writing Activities
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DNA Internet Research
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Pretests
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Post tests
This site has; information, activities, models, and diagrams
of those things necessary to understand the genetic
code.
To understand the genetic
code is to understand how the very simple structures are combined
to form more complex structures. These complex structures combine
forming even more complex structures which are then responsible for a wide
variety of functions necessary for life.
The activities are arranged in two groups;
one in which information is displayed, the other where information must
be found by using recommended links.
Materials:
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Computer Workstation with Internet access
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Browsing Software i.e., Netscape Navigator, and Internet
Explorer
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Word Processing Software i.e., Netscape Composer
Assessment & evaluation:
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DNA Internet Research Test
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DNA Model/ Diagram Test
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Writing Activity
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