DNA & Genes
Describe the double helix structure of DNA (base pairs, complementarity), explain how genes are sections of DNA that code for proteins, introduce the central dogma (DNA → mRNA → protein) conceptually, and discuss the ethical implications of CRISPR gene editing — including potential benefits (genetic disease treatment) and concerns (germline editing, 'designer babies')
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Check understanding
- Describes DNA as a double helix with four bases (A, T, C, G) where A pairs with T and C pairs with G
- Explains that a gene is a section of DNA that codes for a specific protein, and that proteins carry out most of the body's functions
- Describes CRISPR as a molecular tool that can cut and edit DNA sequences, and raises at least two distinct ethical considerations about its use in humans
“If your child heard that scientists have edited a human gene to prevent a hereditary disease, could they explain what DNA actually is, how genes work, and why some people think editing human DNA raises serious ethical questions?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Conceptual
- Subject
- Science
- Domain
- The Human Body
- Age range
- Ages 12–14