Science The Human Body Conceptual 12–14 yrs

DNA & Genes

DNA与基因

Description

Describe the double helix structure of DNA (base pairs, complementarity), explain how genes are sections of DNA that code for proteins, introduce the central dogma (DNA → mRNA → protein) conceptually, and discuss the ethical implications of CRISPR gene editing — including potential benefits (genetic disease treatment) and concerns (germline editing, 'designer babies')

Mastery Evidence

✓ Describes DNA as a double helix with four bases (A, T, C, G) where A pairs with T and C pairs with G
✓ Explains that a gene is a section of DNA that codes for a specific protein, and that proteins carry out most of the body's functions
✓ Describes CRISPR as a molecular tool that can cut and edit DNA sequences, and raises at least two distinct ethical considerations about its use in humans

Assessment Prompt

If your child heard that scientists have edited a human gene to prevent a hereditary disease, could they explain what DNA actually is, how genes work, and why some people think editing human DNA raises serious ethical questions?