Download Transcription and Translation Candy

Names _____________________________ + ____________________________
Candy Transcription and Translation
Objectives:



To demonstrate how the sequence of DNA determines the sequence of mRNA
transcribed.
To model the processes of transcription and translation.
To demonstrate how ribosomes use the code of mRNA to translate the genetic code.
Materials:
red Twizzlers, black Twizzlers, marshmallows, toothpicks, paperclips, Smarties, pasta, packing
puffs, cotton balls, pipe cleaners, cereal, sticky Notes labels Other?
Prelab:
Where does transcription take place?_________________
The end product of transcription is ________________.
Where does translation take place? __________________
The final product of translation is _________________.
What are the main types of RNA and what is each of their function?
RNA:
RNA has some key differences from DNA. List them below and make a key for the 4 RNA nucleotides.
Paste a picture of the 4 RNA nucleotides clearly labeling: ribose, base, phosphate group and nucleotide
name. Do something to make your RNA nucleotides distinct from your DNA nucleotides.
Transcription:
Get your original DNA model or rebuild it using the pictures from the DNA structure and
replication lab. Transcription is the process of copying the genetic information from DNA into a
usable copy of mRNA. Make a model clearly indicating this process make sure to include in
your model representations of the following: nucleus, cytoplasm, template stand, coding strand,
mRNA nucleotides, RNA polymerase, mRNA. Paste a picture(s) of your model below.
Write out the sequence of your mRNA here and put a circle around each of the codons.
tRNAs and Ribosomes:
Use the provided materials to construct the two tRNAs and ribosome that will be used during
translation. On the tRNAs demonstrate anticodons with the appropriate sequence to match the
codons on your mRNA.
Translation:
Make a model demonstrating the process of translation. Your model should include where in the
cell translation takes place and the final product of translation. Your model should include the
following: ribosomes, codons, tRNA with anti-codons and appropriate amino acid, forming
polypeptide and completed polypeptide. Paste a labeled pictures, at least 4, depicting the process
of translation below.
Use the attached genetic code wheel to decode your polypeptide.
What codon does translation usually begin with?
What codon does translation usually end with?