DNA Replication Project
DNA is essential to all life. DNA allows for genetic information to be stored, copied
and transmitted from one cell to the next. Right now you cells are copying their DNA. And,
the DNA that is being copied in your skin cells is identical to the DNA being copied in your
liver cell (and every cell inside of your body). In order to understand the process of
replication, and how it differs from prokaryotic cell DNA replication, you will complete a
DNA replication project.
First, you must choose a product. Choose carefully because you will need to
demonstrate your knowledge of the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic DNA
replication; the steps of eukaryotic DNA replication (leading, lagging strand and Okazaki
fragments); and knowledge of eukaryotic DNA replication enzymes (Helicase, Ligase, and
DNA polymerase).
Second, if you are working with a partner you MUST present your project to your
classmates. If you are working alone you may present for EXTRA CREDIT.
Finally, if you have a product in mind that is not listed below, please ask. Odds are
that you will be able to have your project approved, provided that you can demonstrate all
the information required. In addition, the most creative and original project will be
rewarded with extra credit.
PRODUCTS
- Comic Strip
- Pop Song/Rap
- Children’s Story
- Hand Drawn Poster Illustration with Descriptions
- PowerPoint Presentation
- Movie
- 3-D Model with Descriptions
- Analogy Poster with Descriptions
Content /
Structure
15 points
Beginning
Missing some
major
components of
DNA structure
Developing
Most structural
components are
labeled in detail,
some
components are
missing
Accomplished
Most structural
components are
labeled in detail,
only a few minor
components are
not labeled
Exemplary
All structural
components are
addressed in
detail
DNA double helix, nucleotides, deoxyribose, nitrogen bases (Adenine, Thymine, Guanine,
Cytosine) phosphate, 5 and 3 prime, antiparallel, DNA ligase, DNA polymerase, helicase,
replication fork, leading strand, lagging strand, Okazaki fragments, hydrogen bonding,
covalent bonding, complementary base pairing, Prokaryotic DNA Replication.
Content/
Process
Missing some
major processes
Missing some
minor processes
10 points
Some minor
errors to
accuracy
Entire process is
correct and
accurate
Unzipping, unwinding, breaking hydrogen bonds, 5 to 3 prime direction of replication,
complementary base pairing, joining of Okazaki fragments with ligase.
Clarity
10 points
Creativity
10 points
Although an
attempt is made,
it is difficult to
understand most
of the project.
Messy and/or
Disorganized
Most sections
are well
organized with
clear
identification,
but some
sections are not.
Entire project is
well organized,
but a few of the
parts/processes
are not easily
identifiable.
Clear, concise
vocabulary used;
all
parts/processes
are clearly
addressed.
Project
demonstrates no
attempt at
creativity.
Project
somewhat uses
creativity for
effect and
purpose.
Project uses
creative effects,
but somewhat
distracts from
overall
understanding.
Project aids
understanding
through
creativity to
enhance
understanding.
Total = _________/ 45
DUE DATE = _____________
Project Examples
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-ibk7zVyWI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iD5qDUZ6Sf0
Content /
Structure
15 points
Beginning
Missing some
major
components of
DNA structure
Developing
Most structural
components are
labeled in detail,
some
components are
missing
Accomplished
Most structural
components are
labeled in detail,
only a few minor
components are
not labeled
Exemplary
All structural
components are
addressed in
detail
DNA double helix, nucleotides, deoxyribose, nitrogen bases (Adenine, Thymine, Guanine,
Cytosine) phosphate, 5 and 3 prime, antiparallel, DNA ligase, DNA polymerase, helicase,
replication fork, leading strand, lagging strand, Okazaki fragments, hydrogen bonding,
covalent bonding, complementary base pairing, Prokaryotic DNA Replication.
Content/
Process
Missing some
major processes
Missing some
minor processes
10 points
Some minor
errors to
accuracy
Entire process is
correct and
accurate
Unzipping, unwinding, breaking hydrogen bonds, 5 to 3 prime direction of replication,
complementary base pairing, joining of Okazaki fragments with ligase.
Clarity
10 points
Creativity
10 points
Although an
attempt is made,
it is difficult to
understand most
of the project.
Messy and/or
Disorganized
Most sections
are well
organized with
clear
identification,
but some
sections are not.
Entire project is
well organized,
but a few of the
parts/processes
are not easily
identifiable.
Clear, concise
vocabulary used;
all
parts/processes
are clearly
addressed.
Project
demonstrates no
attempt at
creativity.
Project
somewhat uses
creativity for
effect and
purpose.
Project uses
creative effects,
but somewhat
distracts from
overall
understanding.
Project aids
understanding
through
creativity to
enhance
understanding.