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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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?
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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- 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