How Cells Make Proteins

9th GradeScience40 min

aligned to Stemscopes

Learning Objective

I can describe the roles of DNA, mRNA, and tRNA in protein synthesis.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

12 min

Transcription and Translation

Bozeman Science

Guided Notes

8 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • The central dogma, developed by Francis Crick, explains how DNA contains genes that code for specific proteins.

  • During transcription, RNA polymerase copies a gene from DNA into messenger RNA (mRNA) inside the nucleus.

  • In translation, the ribosome reads the mRNA codons, and transfer RNA (tRNA) brings the corresponding amino acids to build a polypeptide chain, forming a protein.

Practice

12 min

4 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Describe the specific role of each of the following molecules in protein synthesis: DNA, mRNA, and tRNA.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts