Ward's® DNA Simulation Lab Activity

With this activity, students re-create the DNA molecule to better understand replication, transcription, and translation.

• Pre- and post-laboratory assessments included
• Model helps students visualize DNA molecule
• Estimated lab time: 60 minutes
• Colored beads represent DNA parts
• Aligned to NGSS standards (MS/HS: LS1, LS3)

Students discover the intricacies of DNA when they build their own DNA models with pop beads. The beads are color coded to represent the phosphate/deoxyribose sugar backbone and the four nucleotide bases. The connectors between the pop beads represent hydrogen bonds.

Once the model is built, students can manipulate the molecule to visualize the processes of replication, transcription, and translation. They can also determine all possible codon combinations and the amino acids for which each codon specifies.

The kit is also available for purchase with a link to a NewPath digital lesson, which includes a variety of resources on the topic, including background information, illustrations and self-assessments.

Ordering information: This kit includes red pop beads (phosphate), white five-hole pop beads (deoxyribose sugar), yellow pop beads (adenine), orange pop beads (thymine), green pop beads (guanine), blue pop beads (cytosine), pink pop beads (uracil), and plastic connectors (hydrogen bonds).