Bio Project – DNA Research & Model
I.
DUE 11/8
Paper or Video Presentation
You will write a 2-page paper or produce a 5-minute video describing…
1) The discovery of the 3-D structure of DNA
2) The structure and function of DNA
3) The impacts of modern molecular/genetic research on society
If you choose to write a paper, it must include…



TITLE PAGE – A creative Title, your name, and the date
2 PAGES OF INFORMATION – Double spaced, TIMES NEW ROMAN, 12-point font, 1-inch
margins. Pictures may be included, but they DO NOT COUNT towards the minimum page
requirement. Address each of the six topics below.
WORKS CITED PAGE – On a separate sheet of paper. You may use periodicals, reliable internet
resources, and books. You must use at least 4 different sources to write your paper.
If you choose to produce a video, it must include…



TITLE – A creative title, either a slide before your presentation or a text-overlay
5 MINUTES OF INFORMATION – you can narrate your video or present typed information. Your video should
include some audio and visuals. Address each of the six topics below.
WORKS CITED – either at the end of your video, or submitted separately on paper. Follow the same instructions
as the written paper
Topics:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
II.
What is the three-dimensional structure of DNA? How was the 3-D structure of DNA determined? When, Where, and by
whom? Is there controversy over who should have been credited with the discovery? Explain.
Describe the structure of DNA and RNA. Include the individual components of nucleotides, the bonds that hold the
nucleotides together, and the locations of DNA and RNA in the cell.
Describe how DNA is replicated. At what point during the cell cycle is DNA replicated? What is complimentary base pairing
and why is it necessary to make accurate copies of chromosomes? Which enzymes are involved in DNA replication?
Describe the process of transcription? Which enzyme is responsible for transcribing DNA into mRNA?
Describe the process of translation. Explain the roles of mRNA, rRNA, and tRNA, and the genetic code (central dogma).
Discuss a controversial ethical or legal issue involving genetics. Examples of suitable topics include cloning, stem cell
research, genetically modified organisms, genetic screening/counseling, amniocentesis, and privacy of patient’s genetic
information in terms of health insurance or employment.
DNA MODEL
A. YOU WILL CONSTRUCT A 3-D MODEL OF A DNA DOUBLE HELIX. THE MODEL SHOULD INCLUDE
THE FOLLOWING COMPONENTS: (phosphate, deoxyribose sugar, nitrogen bases, hydrogen bonds, covalent
bonds)
B. YOU MUST ALSO PREPARE A LEGEND FOR THE COMPONENTS OF YOUR DNA MODEL. FOR
EXAMPLE, sugars = red pipe cleaners, or hydrogen bonds = toothpicks
Paper
Grading Criteria
Length of paper
or presentation
All 6 topics fully
addressed
Works Citted
Total
Points Available
5
Points Earned
DNA Model
Grading Criteria
Complete and
accurate model
Points available
10
30
Legend
5
5
40
Neatness/Creativity
Total
5
20
Points earned