Description
Using manipulatives, model the flow of information through DNA translation and transcription of a region on the beta-hemoglobin gene, then apply the model to the mutation associated with sickle-cell disease and its physiological effects.
PE: HS-LS1-1
Time Requirements: 3 45-minute Class Periods
SEP: Developing and Using Models
CCC: Systems and System Models; Structure and Function
DCI: LS1.A: Structure and Function
Using a hypothetical scenario of an infant diagnosed with sickle cell disease, students are introduced to the process of translation by modeling the flow of genetic information on a region of the beta hemoglobin gene. Students model transcription and translation using unique magnetic nucleotide bases, develop their own protein translation model, and use clay to demonstrate the physiological effects of the sickle cell mutation. Kit equips 1 group of up to 4 students.
Students follow a hypothetical scenario of an infant, “Baby Terra,” diagnosed with sickle cell disease. As they do, they are introduced to the process of translation by modeling the flow of genetic information on a region of the beta hemoglobin gene. In a series of investigations, students:
- Model transcription and translation using unique magnetic nucleotide bases
- Develop their own protein translation model
- Use clay to demonstrate the physiological effects of the sickle cell mutation
Have your students explore the question “Why did Baby Terra get sick?” through Mendelian and molecular modeling. Kit equips 1 group of up to 4 students and includes 1-year access to digital resources that support 3-dimensional instruction for NGSS.