DNA Replication Project

DNA is essential to all life. DNA allows for genetic information to be stored, copied and transmitted
from one cell to the next. Right now you cells are copying their DNA. And, the DNA that is being copied in
your skin cells is identical to the DNA being copied in your liver cell (and every cell inside of your body). In
order to understand the process of replication, and how it differs from prokaryotic cell DNA replication, you
will complete a DNA replication project.
First, you must choose a product. Choose carefully because you will need to demonstrate your
knowledge of the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic DNA replication; the steps of eukaryotic DNA
replication (leading, lagging strand and Okazaki fragments); and knowledge of eukaryotic DNA replication
enzymes (Helicase, Ligase, and DNA polymerase).
Second, if you are working with a partner you MUST present your project to your classmates. If you are
working alone you may present for EXTRA CREDIT.
Finally, if you have a product in mind that is not listed below, please ask. Odds are that you will be able
to have your project approved, provided that you can demonstrate all the information required. In addition, the
most creative and original project will be rewarded with extra credit.
PRODUCTS
- Comic Strip
- Pop Song/Rap
- Children’s Story
- Hand Drawn Poster Illustration with Descriptions
- PowerPoint Presentation
- Movie
- 3-D Model with Descriptions
- Analogy Poster with Descriptions
 Beginning Developing Accomplished Exemplary
Content / Missing some major Most structural Most structural All structural
Structure components of components are components are components are
DNA structure labeled in detail, labeled in detail, addressed in detail
15 points some components only a few minor
are missing components are not
labeled

DNA double helix, nucleotides, deoxyribose, nitrogen bases (Adenine, Thymine, Guanine, Cytosine) phosphate,
5 and 3 prime, antiparallel, DNA ligase, DNA polymerase, helicase, replication fork, leading strand, lagging
strand, Okazaki fragments, hydrogen bonding, covalent bonding, complementary base pairing, Prokaryotic
DNA Replication.

Content/ Process Missing some major Missing some minor Some minor errors Entire process is
processes processes to accuracy correct and accurate
10 points

Unzipping, unwinding, breaking hydrogen bonds, 5 to 3 prime direction of replication, complementary base
pairing, joining of Okazaki fragments with ligase.

Clarity Although an attempt Most sections are Entire project is Clear, concise
is made, it is well organized with well organized, but vocabulary used; all
10 points difficult to clear identification, a few of the parts/processes are
understand most of but some sections parts/processes are clearly addressed.
the project. are not. not easily
Messy and/or identifiable.
Disorganized

Creativity Project Project somewhat Project uses creative Project aids

demonstrates no uses creativity for effects, but understanding
10 points attempt at creativity. effect and purpose. somewhat distracts through creativity to
from overall enhance
understanding. understanding.

Total = _________/ 45

DUE DATE = _____________

Project Examples

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m-ibk7zVyWI
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iD5qDUZ6Sf0
 Beginning Developing Accomplished Exemplary
Content / Missing some major Most structural Most structural All structural
Structure components of components are components are components are
DNA structure labeled in detail, labeled in detail, addressed in detail
15 points some components only a few minor
are missing components are not
labeled

DNA double helix, nucleotides, deoxyribose, nitrogen bases (Adenine, Thymine, Guanine, Cytosine) phosphate,
5 and 3 prime, antiparallel, DNA ligase, DNA polymerase, helicase, replication fork, leading strand, lagging
strand, Okazaki fragments, hydrogen bonding, covalent bonding, complementary base pairing, Prokaryotic
DNA Replication.

Content/ Process Missing some major Missing some minor Some minor errors Entire process is
processes processes to accuracy correct and accurate
10 points

Unzipping, unwinding, breaking hydrogen bonds, 5 to 3 prime direction of replication, complementary base
pairing, joining of Okazaki fragments with ligase.

Clarity Although an attempt Most sections are Entire project is Clear, concise
is made, it is well organized with well organized, but vocabulary used; all
10 points difficult to clear identification, a few of the parts/processes are
understand most of but some sections parts/processes are clearly addressed.
the project. are not. not easily
Messy and/or identifiable.
Disorganized

Creativity Project Project somewhat Project uses creative Project aids

demonstrates no uses creativity for effects, but understanding
10 points attempt at creativity. effect and purpose. somewhat distracts through creativity to
from overall enhance
understanding. understanding.