Nucleotide Modeling: An Introduction to DNA & RNA
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.
Details at a Glance
- 1-2 Days | 1-2 ~50 minute class periods
- 1 Activity
- Accommodates unlimited classes, each with 16 groups of 2 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- All materials are non-consumable
- Includes digital resources
Scientific Concepts
•DNA and RNA are nucleic acids that have some shared characteristics but also differ significantly.
•DNA contains deoxyribose sugars and the bases adenine, thymine, guanine and cytosine.
•DNA contains ribose sugars and the bases adenine, uracil, guanine and cytosine.
•Models help scientists visualize and understand many concepts and processes.
Key Vocabulary: adenine, DNA, nucleotide, thymine, cytosine, guanine, ribose, uracil, deoxyribose, nucleic acid, 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
- 1 Teacher’s Guide
- 36 Student Worksheets and Guides
- 1 Package containing 784 white “bonds”
- 1 Package containing 304 white “hydrogen atoms”
- 1 Package containing 176 red “oxygen atoms”
- 1 Package containing 160 black “carbon atoms”
- 1 Package containing 80 blue “nitrogen atoms”
- 1 Package containing 16 purple “phosphorus atoms”
- 16 Resealable plastic bags