DNA/RNA Building Set/Transcription and Translation Model

thingiverse

Human: **See video to view the kit in action!** This educational set is designed for students to explore DNA and RNA through interactive blocks that allow them to model various processes related to nucleic acids. Each nucleotide block features the letter symbol and shape of its corresponding base, distinguishing between purines and pyrimidines. The number and type of hydrogen bond donors (posts) and acceptors (holes) at the top determine which bases pair together in a DNA molecule. Students link the blocks together to form a DNA or RNA backbone by connecting them from the bottom. By matching complementary DNA or RNA strands at the tops, kids can learn about the structure of DNA and base pairing without prior instruction. The kit also includes tRNA models that demonstrate transcription and translation processes. By splitting double-stranded DNA and building a complementary mRNA strand with uracil instead of thymine, students visualize these essential cellular processes. Amino acid blocks paired with customized anticodons on the tRNA models show how each anticodon matches a specific amino acid, which can then be linked to form a protein. This set provides an interactive way for students to learn about DNA mutations such as deletions, insertions, and frame-shifts and their impact on protein production. Additionally, the kit includes blocks designed for DNA sequencing to demonstrate this crucial technique. Printer Settings: Printer: Da Vinci Jr. Rafts: Yes Supports: Yes Resolution:.2mm Infill: 5-10% Notes: Rafts and supports are required only when printing the nucleic acid blocks. NGSS, CCSS, and Overview of Objectives: * Describe how nucleotides form specific pairs through hydrogen bonding. * Explain what happens to DNA structure when a base pair is mismatched. * Build complementary DNA and mRNA strands based on a pre-built template strand. * Describe transcription and translation processes. * Explain how proteins are produced from DNA. * Identify different RNA types (mRNA, tRNA, rRNA). * Define the roles of purines and pyrimidines in DNA structure. * Understand how DNA mutations (deletions, insertions) impact protein production. * Recognize start and stop codons, and understand how each tRNA anticodon matches one specific amino acid. Preparation and pre-teaching: Students should be familiar with nucleic acid base pairing, DNA structure, mRNA, tRNA, and ribosome properties. Use this kit to explore various concepts such as transcription, translation, base pairing, DNA replication, mutations, etc., depending on the approach chosen. Students can work independently with the set without prior explanation, using their own reasoning to determine how nucleotides fit together in DNA structure and their interactions. Lesson Plan and Activity: * Create a template DNA strand. * Students must use nucleotide blocks to create complementary mRNA that leaves the nucleus and reaches the ribosome. * Either assemble tRNA molecules or let students do it with anticodons and amino acids attached, then demonstrate the binding of these to the mRNA while in the ribosome, amino acid transfer, and leaving of old tRNAs as new ones bind. * Compare how different DNA sequences produce various amino acid sequences. Additional Lessons: -mRNA processing can be integrated into this lesson -Effects of mutations (deletions and frame-shifts) on transcription and translation can also be illustrated. Materials needed: This model kit provides all necessary materials to explore these concepts without any additional items needed