Unit Details Bio 3.1 (9/25 thru 10/8)
Grade Level/Course
Conceptual Strand
Evolution and Genetics
High School/Biology
Common Core Essential State Standards
NC Science Essential Standard(s)
Bio 3.1 Explain how traits are determined by the structure and function
of DNA.
Clarifying Objectives
Clarifying Objectives
Number
Standard
Bio 3.1.1
Explain the double-stranded, complementary nature of DNA as related to
its function in the cell.
Bio 3.1.2
Explain how DNA and RNA code for proteins and determine traits.
Bio 3.1.3
Explain how mutations in DNA that result from interactions with the
environment (i.e. radiation and chemicals) or new combinations in existing
genes lead to changes in function and phenotype.
Essential Questions and Big Ideas
Big Ideas

DNA has a specific structure that
allows it to replicate itself and
provides the code for protein
synthesis.

Proteins must be made at the
correct time and in the correct
amount in specific cells.

DNA and RNA provide the code for
Essential Questions
1. Compare and contrast DNA and
RNA.
2. Develop a cause and effect model
relating the structure of DNA to the
functions of replication and protein
synthesis.
3. Infer the advantages and
disadvantages of overproduction,
underproduction, and production of
proteins.
4. What is the process of protein

proteins in a specific set of steps.

There are 3 types of RNA that help
with protein synthesis.

A codon chart is used to determine

the amino acids that would code for
specifc mRNA codons.

Proteins are consist of amino acids
linked by peptide bonds to form
polypeptides that are then put
together. Proteins have specific
functions within a cell or organism.

Mutations are changes to the DNA
that can cause changes to the
amino acid sequence and its
resulting protein and phenotype.
5.
6.
7.
8.
synthesis?
What are the 3 types of RNA?
Interpret a codon chart.
How do amino acid sequences
build proteins and control
phenotypes?
How do mutations affect DNA, its
resulting proteins and phenotypes?
Vocabulary
Objective
3.1.1
Academic
DNA
Vocabulary
Performance
Explain
RNA
Develop
Nucleic acid
Infer
Nucleotide
Hydrogen bonds
Complementary base pairing
Double helix
DNA Replication
Protein
Genetic code
Gene expression
Adenine
Thymine
Cytosine
Guanine
3.1.2
mRNA
Explain
tRNA
Interpret
rRNA
protein synthesis
transcription
Translation
Codon
Anticodon
Peptide bond
Polypeptide chain
Structural protein
Functional Protein
Amino acid
Phenotype
3.1.3
Mutation
Understand
Mutagen
Develop
Deletion
Substitution
Addition
Heritable change