Unraveling the DNA Mystery

• Science
• Secondary Education

Unraveling the DNA Mystery

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will know the structure of DNA and where it is stored.

Introduce the learning objective to the students. Explain that they will be learning about the structure of DNA and where it is stored.

What do you already know about the structure of DNA?

What is DNA?

DNA is a molecule that carries genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth and reproduction of all living organisms.

Introduce the concept of DNA and explain its importance in living organisms.

The Structure of DNA

DNA is a double helix structure made up of nucleotides. Each nucleotide consists of a sugar, a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base.

Explain the structure of DNA and the components that make up nucleotides.

The Nitrogenous Bases

The four nitrogenous bases are adenine (A), thymine (T), guanine (G), and cytosine (C). They pair up in a specific way: A with T and G with C.

Explain the nitrogenous bases and how they pair up in DNA.

The Double Helix

The double helix is formed by the two nucleotide strands that run in opposite directions and are held together by hydrogen bonds between the nitrogenous bases.

Explain the structure of the double helix and how the strands are held together.

Chromosomes

DNA is stored in chromosomes, which are located in the nucleus of cells. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46.

Explain where DNA is stored and how it is organized in chromosomes.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.