Discovering DNA is a free, 10-page PDF for a brief study of DNA that can be used with the entire family. It has two lessons—the first teaching about DNA and its function and the second explaining gene editing, CRISPR technology and some of its applications.
Each lesson has three parts: Read and Watch, Discuss, and Do.
The Read and Watch sections include about one page of text per lesson to read aloud. Part way through the text are links to videos to watch before reading the remainder. The first lesson includes links to videos about the role of DNA—a nine-minute video for younger children and an hour-long video for the older ones.
The Discuss section of each lesson presents several multi-part discussion prompts, such as this one on page 3: “Uncovering the structure of DNA required not only a lot of scientific knowledge, but also creative thinking. When you think of science, does creativity usually come to mind? Why or why not?” One question for the second lesson has students weigh the pros and cons of using CRISP-R technology to bring back Woolly Mammoths. Questions like the latter one will engage all ages, while some are better for older students.
The Do section for the first lesson has students create a model of DNA using “puzzle” pieces from page 10 or pipe cleaners and instructions from a linked website. They might also learn about DNA by solving a puzzle game online. (Use this link if you have trouble with the one in the study guide.)
The second lesson has students perform an experiment to extract DNA from strawberries. Only household supplies and strawberries are required. While the DNA is easy to see without magnification, a microscope will help students look more closely at the results.
At the end of this study, two picture books are recommended for those who want to learn more.
Parents are encouraged to choose the activities and discussion questions that are useful for their family. You can complete each lesson in one long session or break them up over a few days, but the entire study can be completed within two to six sessions.
On top of its educational value, Discovering DNA should lead to some great family discussions.