Big Mama’s Chicken Run…
DNA’s Protein Synthesis Express

In this engaging lesson on DNA, protein synthesis, and gene expression, students in grades 7-9 will explore the fascinating process of how genetic information is transformed into functional proteins. Using a fun analogy of ordering fried chicken at a restaurant, they will learn that DNA acts as the order form, mRNA serves as the messenger carrying the order to the ribosome (the restaurant), and tRNAs are the workers delivering the right ingredients (amino acids) to create the meal (protein). Students will discover the steps of replication, transcription, and translation, understanding how the genetic code is transcribed into mRNA and then translated into a sequence of amino acids. They will also learn to identify start and stop codons, emphasizing the importance of correct sequencing for the protein's function. By the end of the lesson, students will appreciate how precise communication and teamwork in this cellular "restaurant" are crucial for building proteins that keep living organisms functioning.

Approximate time needed:  30-minute lesson + 30-minute activity.

Standards MS CCRS L.8.2A.1, L.8.2C, BIO.3B.2, BIO.1C, BIO.1C.1, BIO.3C, BIO.3C.1, BIO.3C.2, BIO.3C.3