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Student Activity - Modelling DNA
Activity idea
In this activity, students use lollies to construct a DNA model in order to model a point mutation.
Instructions
DNA molecules are hard to visualise. You can make a DNA model out of lollies, toothpicks and florist wire.
What you will need
- lollies (as supplied by your teacher)
- toothpicks
- florist wire
Instructions
- Decide in your group which lollies will be the bases (remember there are four sorts of these), the phosphate groups and the sugar.
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Use the toothpicks and florist wire as bonds to hold parts together, just like in the real DNA molecule. A DNA molecule has two strands – how will you join the strands?
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The base sequence for your DNA molecule will be:
ATGATTACAAG
TACTAATGTTC - Can you twist your molecule into the double helix shape?
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A mutation is a change in the DNA sequence. Make just a little mutation in your model – this is a point mutation where only one base has been changed. Find the mutation in the sequence below then make this molecule.
ATGAATACAAG
TACTAATGTTC - When you have made your model of a DNA molecule, sketch it into your books.
- You will not be eating it – no eating in labs. Perhaps your teacher will allow you to stick your model on the wall of your classroom – hopefully, just seeing it will remind you of the fun you had making it and also remind you of what makes up a DNA molecule and what a mutation is.
