Provide hands-on activities for practice and mastery. Check for understanding of concepts and skills by using relevant standard materials, i.e. worksheets, text problems, workbooks, teacher prepared exercises, etc.

Worksheets COMPUTER PROG. "The Master Molecule"

Objective: To make sure students not only know the facts about DNA structure, but to see if they can use that information by using paper and computer problem simulations related to DNA replication and protein synthesis.

Activity: In this octant, the students work as a class on a computer program called The Master Molecule. The menu for this program provides choices which allow the review of DNA structure, replication and finally introduces mRNA, tRNA and ribosomes and their roles in protein synthesis. By using a large screen TV monitor and gathering the whole class around this proves to be an enjoyable activity that is confirming for the students and their confidence in the material. This can be followed up with a paper/pencil assignment for class or for homework that involves transcription and translation and results in the primary structure of a piece of imaginary protein. A copy of the worksheet follows at the end of the cycle.

Assessment: Student participation and quality of answers in the computer simulation and then successful completion of the worksheet.