Candy DNA Model

Activity Summary
Students learn the basic structure and function of DNA through the use of Candy. The structure of DNA is first introduced including the double helix and base pairing. The models are then used to show replication and transcription. Students can eat there models for a quick clean-up.

Grade Levels
9-12

Learning Objectives
1. Demonstrate their understanding of DNA structure including the principles of a double helix and base-pairing
2. Demonstrate how DNA strands separate and new strands are constructed in the process of DNA replication
3. Demonstrate an understanding of transcription by making an RNA molecule from a single strand of DNA
4. Show an understanding of basic translation principles

Lesson Materials (view or download)
Lesson Plans

Keywords
transcription, replication, double helix, thymine, adenine, cytosine, guanine, anti-parallel

Last updated: 3/3/2015