Protein Synthesis Lab

Description

In this Protein Synthesis Lab, your Biology students will model the major events of protein synthesis. They’ll apply their knowledge of transcription and translation as they move paper models of DNA, messenger RNA, and transfer RNA molecules around the “cell”.

Model parts are included in color and black & white. See the PREVIEW for details on these options.

Students will . . .

• Designate an area of their desk or lab table to represent a cell
• Separate the nucleus and cytoplasm with nuclear envelope pieces that are included
• Set up the DNA template strand in the nucleus
• Model transcription as they move RNA nucleotides to base pair to the template (RNA splicing is discussed, but not modeled)
• Move the mRNA transcript out of the nucleus to the ribosome (Original and small ribosomal subunits are included and the A, P, and E sites are labeled, but optional.)
• Select the correct tRNA molecule to base pair with the mRNA codons at the ribosome
• Visualize how amino acids are assembled into polypeptides
• OPTIONAL: The same paper model pieces can be used for a whole class review activity. Your students become the DNA and RNA molecules and act out the processes of transcription and translation in your classroom! Instructions and guiding questions are included.

Click on the PREVIEW button above to see more details and make sure this resource is right for your students.

This resource is mostly editable and includes 7 files:

1. Read This First includes an overview of the resource, contact information, terms of use, and image and font credits.
2. Teacher’s Guide includes a materials list, set-up instructions, pictures, and other helpful hints.
3. Student Lab Handout
4. Teacher Answer Key
5. Model Parts – This file is NOT editable.
6. Post-Lab Quiz
7. Quiz Answer Key

Complete your study of DNA & PROTEIN SYNTHESIS with these resources:

DNA & Protein Synthesis PowerPoint and Notes

DNA & Protein Synthesis Supplements for Instruction and Assessment

DNA & Protein Synthesis Task Cards

DNA & Protein Synthesis Review Qubes

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Happy Teaching!

Carla Brooks