What are Viruses?
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Objective
I can describe the basic structure and function of a virus.
Part 1 of 4
Warm-up video
CrashCourse · 12:49Vetted channel
We don't generate video — this one is by CrashCourse on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.
Part 2 of 4
Key concepts
3 concepts
- 1
A virus consists of nucleic acids, either DNA or RNA, enclosed in a protein coat called a capsid.
- 2
Viruses can only replicate within a host cell by taking over the cell's molecular machinery.
- 3
Vaccines help the body's immune system recognize and fight viruses by introducing a weakened or dead version of the virus, or just its protein jacket.
Part 3 of 4
Practice
3 questions
According to the video, what two components are ALWAYS found in a virus?
Viruses are not considered 'alive' by most scientists because they cannot do certain things on their own. Which of the following activities can a virus NOT perform independently?
Part 4 of 4
Exit ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Describe the two main components that make up the basic structure of a virus. Also, explain what a virus needs to do in order to function.”
Sample answer included in the free materials
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