Carolyn C. Smith
DNA: Factors of Inheritance
Objectives The students will be able to:
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1. describe the process of meiosis.
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2. identify and describe the structure of DNA and how it replicates.
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3. discuss how sex traits are inherited.
Vocabulary DNA, minerals, proteins, genes, chromosomes, inherited, replicate, meisos, mitosis, traits, cells
Materials Needed paper, colored pencils, chart of a DNA structure
Brainstorming Questions
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1. If cells did not reproduce themselves how long do you think you would live?
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2. What makes you look the way you do?
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3. What ways can people change their appearance?
Procedures Review cells with emphases on the nucleus. Introduce DNA. Using the diagram, point out the structure of this unit of the body and them importance of the six parts of which it is made. Make sure the students are aware of the manner that the four basic chemicals which form the protein needed in order for the body to function properly. Tell the students that because cells die they must constantly replace themselves in order for the body to remain in balance. Due to the fact that DNA is a part of the cell structure, it too must replicate itself. Make sure that the students understand that the four basic chemicals used to form the protein of the body must be attached in a certain way or there could be problem which could be passed on to offspring.
Related Activities
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1. Have the students colored paper and cut the six parts of the DNA structure. (Sugars and minerals could be 2”x5” and the chemicals can be 2”x6”) Distribute the pieces among the students, making sure that each student gets two or three different pieces. Using a flat surface, have the students attach the sides together in the proper order. Once that is done, have the students to attach the protein steps. (Like a jigsaw puzzle, the students should get the feel of how this structure works in the body.)
