A model of the structure of DNA
I can describe the structure of DNA and evaluate models of it.
A model of the structure of DNA
I can describe the structure of DNA and evaluate models of it.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Genetic material is made of DNA.
- DNA is a long chemical molecule, made of two chains of smaller chemical units joined together.
- All of the DNA in a cell is called the genome.
- The chains are spiralled around one another in a double helix, with links across the middle.
- Scientific models of DNA can be evaluated for their strengths and weaknesses.
Common misconception
The genetic code and DNA are the same thing.
The DNA is a long chemical molecule made of four different types of chemical units (A, T, C, G). These units make up the genetic code.
Keywords
Genetic material - The genetic material of a cell carries the instructions for inherited features and processes, which are passed from parent to offspring.
DNA - Genetic material is made of a chemical substance called DNA.
Double helix - DNA has a double helix structure made from two chains in a spiral.
Genome - The genome is all of the genetic material of a cell.
Model - Scientists use models as simpler representations of complex things and ideas.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Living building block of all organisms.
A chemical molecule that carries the genetic code.
Carried by DNA it gives instructions for inherited features.
It stores the DNA in animal, plant and fungi cells.
Exit quiz
6 Questions
