Introduction Lesson 1 Lesson 2 Lesson 3 Experience 1 Experience 2 Resources Culminating Experience National Standards   DNA - The Code of Life DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is found in the nucleus of every cell. It is the genetic code of life. Segments of DNA contain genes that carry genetic information or codes, which are passed from parents to offspring. Genes determine characteristics of living things. Genes determine if a plant produces flowers, smells sweet, tastes sour, contains thorns, produces fruit that ripens quickly, grows tall, grows wide or loses leaves. Genes give plants their many variations. Because of advanced technology, scientists can transfer genes found in DNA to obtain a desired trait. This lesson shows and describes the DNA molecule and how it controls life! Objectives: Students will: Define DNA. Use jumbo and colored paper clips to make a model of DNA. Extract DNA from wheat germ. DNA Terms: adenine double helix chromosome gene cytosine guanine deoxyribonucleic acid thymine Focus Questions: What makes each of us unique? Why are we different from each other, but similar to our parents? What is DNA? What is DNA made of? How do we know this? Where is DNA found in the cell? Can DNA be extracted from organisms? Can it be transferred among organisms? Why would scientists want to extract DNA? Should there be limits to what someone can do with DNA? What about your own DNA? Are they any privacy issues with people using your DNA?

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