What are Viruses?
Grade 9th Grade · Science · 30 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can describe the basic structure and function of a virus.
Warm-Up Video
CrashCourse · 12:49
Viruses & Vaccines: How Do Vaccines Work?: Crash Course Biology 39
Guided Notes
3 key 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.
Practice Questions
3 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
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.”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
