This is a paper model of a DNA molecule that a student can fold from a sheet of paper. There are two folding methods available. One is simpler to fold. The other does a better job of representing the shape of the DNA molecule. Hopefully, folding instructions will come soon. There are instructions for similar models on YouTube.
The model can be printed in color, or printed in black and white and the student can color it in.
Here is a brief description that may be helpful.
If the students will be coloring the model, have them do this first. Pick a different color for each of the nucleobases, coloring all of the Ts one color, All of the As another color, all of the Gs another color and all of the Cs another color. You may also want to color all of the deoxyriboses another color.
Fold all of the long folds first. Fold so that dotted lines are inside the fold, and solid lines are outside of the fold. The whole model will fold over itself so that you have a printed side out on both sides. On the more complex model, the model will have a shape similar to an I-beam. The simple model will be more like a stretched out Z. Fold the sides flat, and pre-fold each of the horizontal folds. Do all of the straight folds first, then all of the diagonal folds. After they are pre-folded, lay the model out flat. Now, working from one end, do all of the horizontal folds (both straight and diagonal) working from one end accordion style. Flatten the model as you go. The model will fold down into a flat circle. Pull the circle open slightly from each end, allowing the model to maintain its twisted shape. Now the edges can be unflattened to create the biopolymer strands on either side of the model.
Finished models can be taped together to form a longer DNA strand.
Use a simpler folding method. Use a more complex folding method that better represents the DNA molecule.
Include colors representing the nucleobases. Label the nucleobases. Draw a diagram of the nucleotides.
Draw a dividing line down the center of each nucleobase pair to facilitate coloring the model. Draw a dividing line between each nucleobase pair, but offset (pyrimidines are smaller than purines). Don't draw a dividing line between each nucleobase pair.
Create 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 different models each with a different arrangement of nucleobases.
Create It!
