In a 15 minute video, Paul Andersen describes the four major biological molecules found in living things. There are links to two worksheets and a transcript of the videoso you can create your own guided notes for students to complete while watching the video.

Students will participate in a 5E lesson. To ENGAGE, students will connect their understanding of similarities between parent and offspring to the fundamental molecule of life: DNA. To EXPLORE, students will participate in interactives to observe, analyze and summarize how genes are used to create proteins and traits. In the EXPLAIN section, students will take notes on DNA replication and the Central Dogma. To ELABORATE on their understanding of DNA, students will participate in a protein synthesis race (game) to practice transcription and translation. Formative evaluations of students's ability to explain the process of protein synthesis include (1) a protein synthesis and codon practice sheet, (2) a labeling activity, and (3) making a recording that models and explain the process. As an extension, students can apply their understanding of mRNA to explain how the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines work. Finally, int summative EVALUATE, students model replication, transcription, and translation as they build an organism!

Amino acids and the central dogma of molecular biology. Amino and carboxyl groups, side chains, and zwitterions.

Learn about polymers.  They are all around us. From the proteins we consume to the plastic cups we drink from, polymers dominate our lives and our earth. They package our snacks but can also pollute our oceans. But do you REALLY know what a polymer is? Join Camille Schrier, science lover and Miss America 2020, to explore the science of polymers by making some slimy sodium alginate worms, and biodegradable corn plastic that is good for the earth!!

Learn about cooking and baking. They are really all about science. Using her kitchen as her laboratory, Camille Schrier, Miss America 2020, explores the power of food and the science of cooking. She dissects what happens when she's in the kitchen preparing two of her favorite foods- eggs and cookies. Join Miss America as she explores the biological building blocks of food and the molecular changes that happen when we cook. Developed for students in grades 6-10.