echoesof.science · Ages 6–7
DNA: the instructions inside you
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Inside the cells of every living thing there is a set of instructions. They are called DNA.
DNA looks like a very long, twisted ladder. Scientists call this shape a double helix.
The instructions are written with only four letters: A, T, C and G. A always holds hands with T, and C always holds hands with G.
Children get half of their DNA from each of their two biological parents. That is why a baby animal looks like its kind: a kitten grows into a cat, not a dog!
Experiment: Build a paper DNA ladder
- Write A on the red rungs, T on the yellow rungs, C on the blue rungs and G on the green rungs.
- Remember the rule: red A always goes with yellow T, and blue C always goes with green G.
- Glue a red A on the end of one side. Which colour must go next to it on the other side? Glue it on.
- Keep going until you have made 8 rungs. Ask a friend to check that every rung follows the rule.
- Hold the top and bottom of your ladder and gently twist it. Now it looks like a double helix!
| Side 1 | Side 2 (partner) | |
|---|---|---|
| Rung 1 | If side 1 says A, what will side 2 say? | |
| Rung 2 | If side 1 says A, what will side 2 say? | |
| Rung 3 | If side 1 says A, what will side 2 say? | |
| Rung 4 | If side 1 says A, what will side 2 say? |
Questions
Draw a short DNA ladder with 4 rungs. Write the letters on each rung.
🍎Which letter goes with C?
G / A
What shape is DNA?
Name two living things that have DNA.
Sources for every fact on this sheet: echoesof.science/school/dna/sources/