Topic
2a) The expression
of genes in
eukaryotes
i) Proteins
Activity
Resources
Outline
A. Investigation of protein structure
using RasMol worksheet
Class computer access required.
Computers require to have RasMol
installed or it can be run from a disc.
The molecules folder contains the
images required for this activity.
These are available in the Student
activities.
Copy of ID card template
Access to computer an advantage
Work through the worksheet
following instructions and answer
questions.
B. Investigation of individual proteins
ii) Structure and
function of RNA
A. Role-play of protein synthesis
DNA codes, RNA nucleotides, tRNA
cards, information cards
B. Protein synthesis diagram
Protein synthesis diagram
C. Completion of ID cards for
molecules involved in protein
synthesis
See structure and function of RNA
Copy of ID cards, information cards
from previous activity
Each student investigates a particular
protein and creates an ID card for it.
These can then be used to produce a
classroom display.
Students work in teams to transcribe
and translate the DNA code to
identify the correct order of amino
acids. They can then read cards in
groups to find out the roles of each of
the molecules involved.
Students use information from the
above activity to complete the
diagram.
Students use the information on the
cards to complete ID cards in their
notes.
iii) Transcription
and its role in gene
expression
iv) Translation of
mRNA and its role
in gene expression
2b) One gene,
many proteins
2c) Differentiation
in multicellular
organisms
A. Genetic code quiz
Genetic code PowerPoint and copy of
the genetic code
B. Protein synthesis story board
Copy of storyboard template
C. Splicing
Splicing PowerPoint and template for
strips of letters
Students simulate splicing of the
primary transcript to for sentences.
PowerPoint also contains information
to allow completion of box 2 of
protein synthesis diagram.
One gene, many protein worksheet
Use the information in the worksheet
to complete the diagram.
Alternative splicing PDF
Further information on alternative
splicing with questions for students to
consider. Difficult but could be used
as an extension for able students.
Culture plants from different plant
tissues.
See also structure and function of RNA
activities
A. Identification of pre- and posttranslational modifications leading to
the production of different proteins
B. Alternative splicing
A. Tissue culture practical
Link to practical in teacher’s guide
Students identify amino acids using
mRNA codons. Also introduces start
and stop codons.
Students complete storyboard to show
the entire protein synthesis process.
i) Meristems and
stem cells
A. All about stem cells
Cards 16+ and worksheets, questions
and posters
ii) Research and
therapeutic value
of stem cells
C. Discussion of the ethical issues
surrounding stem cells
Points of view cards 14–16 PDF
B. Role-play
About the role-play PDF
Background information on stem
cells PDF
Background information on spinal
cord injury PDF
Role cards
Application for clinical trial
Stem cells in the news file
D. Stem cells in the news
Introductory activity into stem cells
and their uses. Includes information
cards for discussion, questions for
consideration, worksheets and ideas to
help produce an information poster.
Could be used in entirety or in small
activities.
Students discuss the views of the
various people described on the cards.
A worksheet is provided to guide the
discussion. Also contains a what if
…? scenario that students can discuss.
Students take on the role of
individuals/groups involved in the
application for a clinical trial
involving stem cells. A whole-class
discussion can then follow the
completion of the task.
A short newspaper clip on potential
uses for stem cells with questions to
follow.