0% found this document useful (0 votes)
215 views2 pages

DNA Project

Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
215 views2 pages

DNA Project

Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

Grade 9 Biology Project

20 MARKS

Project Title: Building a DNA Model and Understanding Its Function and
Importance

Introduction to DNA:

Deoxyribonucleic acid, or DNA, is the hereditary material found in nearly all living
organisms. It holds the instructions for growth, development, and reproduction. DNA is
composed of nucleotides, each of which includes a phosphate group, a sugar molecule,
and one of four nitrogenous bases: adenine (A), thymine (T), cytosine (C), and guanine
(G). These bases pair up (A with T, and C with G) to form the structure of DNA, which
resembles a twisted ladder, or double helix.

Project Objective:

1. Model Construction: Create a DNA model that shows:


○ The sugar-phosphate backbone (the sides of the DNA ladder)
○ The four nitrogenous bases (adenine, thymine, cytosine, and guanine)
paired correctly
○ The double helix (twisted ladder) structure
2. Research Report: Write a short report covering:
○ The structure of DNA and its main components
○ The function of DNA in cells (genetic storage, protein synthesis)
○ The importance of DNA in heredity and biology

Instructions for the Project:

Part 1: Building the DNA Model

● Materials: You can build your model in one of the following ways:
○ 3D Model: Use materials like beads, clay, or paper for the bases, and
straws or sticks for the backbone. Twist it to represent the double helix.
○ Chart Paper Model: You may create a flat model on chart paper, using
toothpicks, sticks, or other materials to represent the bases and backbone.
The model should include some 3D elements (e.g., raised or layered
parts) to illustrate the structure clearly.
● Key Points:
○ Arrange the nitrogenous bases correctly (A with T, C with G).
○ Include both the sugar-phosphate backbone and the base pairs.
○ If you're working on chart paper, make sure some parts of the model stand
out in 3D.
Part 2: Research Report

● Format: Write a 200-350 word report that includes:


1. Structure of DNA: Describe the sugar-phosphate backbone and the nitrogenous
bases.
2. Function of DNA: Explain how DNA stores genetic information and directs
protein production.
3. Importance of DNA: Discuss why DNA is essential for heredity and the study of
biology.
4. Conclusion: Summarize why understanding DNA is crucial for understanding
life.

Assessment Criteria:

● Model Construction (50%): Is the model accurate and clearly shows the
structure of DNA, including base pairs and the double helix? Is there some 3D
element, even in chart paper models? 10 MARKS
● Research Report (50%): Does the report clearly explain the structure, function,
and importance of DNA? 10 MARKS

Submission Guidelines:

● Due Date: [ ]
● Model Submission: Bring your completed model to class on the due date.
● Research Report: Submit a printed or typed report with your model.

You might also like