Lesson 3

Name-in-DNA bracelets

Grades
3-5
Time
25-35 min
Group
Individual
Est. cost
$15-25

Students translate their name into a three-bead-per-letter code and wear it. This makes a hands-on, take-home introduction to codons, the three-letter "words" of DNA. Includes a ready-to-print codon dictionary.

What students do

  • Spell their name in a three-bead-per-letter code
  • String and wear a bracelet
  • Swap with a friend and decode the hidden name using the codon key

What you'll need

Pony beads in 4 colors, string or stretchy cord, the printable codon dictionary, and scissors. About $15-25 a class.

Full quantities and costs are in the materials & cost sheet.

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↓ Slides (.pptx)   Guide & worksheets

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