DNA & Nucleotide Modeling: Single Group
This kit is for a single group and combines the activities of two full-class (16 group) kits: #71 DNA Modeling: Molecular Structure & Replication and #513 Nucleotide Modeling: An Introduction to DNA & RNA. In Activity I (from Kit #71) students build models of DNA and use this experience to visualize the structure of DNA molecules as a “twisted ladder” shaped double helix with “side rails” of deoxyribose sugars and phosphate groups and “ladder rungs” consisting of a nitrogen base pair. They also model DNA replication which involves “zipping apart” the “rungs” where the weak hydrogen bonds connect the nitrogen bases. In Activity II (from Kit #513) they use a different modeling set to build molecules of ribose, deoxyribose and five different nitrogen bases while learning about some of the major differences between DNA and RNA.
Details at a Glance
- 3-4 Days | 3-4 ~50 minute class periods
- 2 Activities
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 1 group of 2 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Includes digital resources
Scientific Concepts
•DNA molecules have a “twisted ladder” double helix structure.
•Each “ladder rung” consists of a nitrogen base pair (single-ring pyrimidine linked to double-ring purine.)
•The order of these base pair “rungs” determines the genetic code of every living thing.
•DNA molecules replicate by “zipping apart” where the weak hydrogen bonds connect the nitrogen bases.
•DNA and RNA are both nucleic acids but have some significant differences.
•Models help scientists visualize and understand many concepts and processes.
Key Vocabulary: adenine, guanine, purine, thymine, cytosine, hereditary, pyrimidine, uracil, deoxyribose, hydrogen bond, replication, DNA, nucleic acid, ribose, double helix, nucleotide, RNA
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
- All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 4 Adenine (A) (orange)
- 49 Covalent plastic bonds
- 4 Cytosine (C) (blue)
- 16 Deoxyribose sugar groups (black)
- 4 Guanine (G) (yellow)
- 8 Hydrogen bonds
- 16 Phosphate groups (white tubes)
- 19 Single electron hydrogen atoms (white)
- 10 Carbon (black), tetrahedral centers
- 5 Nitrogen (red), tetrahedral centers
- 11 Oxygen (blue), tetrahedral centers
- 1 Phosphorous (purple), tetrahedral centers
- 4 Thymine (T) (green), tetrahedral centers
- 1 Student Instruction Manual
Related Products
-
Kit #79Strawberry DNAThis lab activity allows students to easily extract and observe deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) found in plant cells. They separate and spool the DNA so they can observe some of DNA’s physical properties. Students gain an appreciation and firsthand experience of the DNA structure. This lab activity comes with everything needed to perform...
$127.30 View Details -
Kit #71DNA Model
The two activities in this kit introduce students to the structure of the DNA molecule and how its structure allows it to replicate. Using a unique Lab-Aids modeling set, students first build an 8-rung DNA double helix and learn the base-pairing rule. Then starting with a 4-rung segment, they unzip the ladder and create...
$120.95 View Details -
Kit #72Protein Synthesis Model
The purpose of this kit is to model the production of proteins and compare the structure of DNA and RNA. Activity 1 models the structure of DNA from its nucleotide to double helix and its replication. Activity 2 introduces RNA and its nucleotides and simulates the process of transcription in the nucleus and translation in the...
$255.30 View Details -
Kit #70Genetics Concepts
This activity allows students to collect data that show similar patterns to those Mendel discovered. Using specially designed equipment, students “rediscover” the principles of genetics. The unique materials produce random genotype combinations that are statistically consistent with those found when studying living organisms.
$135.15 View Details -
Kit #513Nucleic Acid Model
Students use a molecular modeling set to build molecules of ribose, deoxyribose and five different nitrogen bases. They use this modeling experience as a basis for visualizing and understanding some of the major differences between DNA and RNA.
$162.15 View Details
