Did you know that proteins are compounds found in all living cells? Found in milk, eggs, blood and seeds of all kinds. Their variety and complexity are incredible, but structurally they all follow the same simple scheme. So it never hurts to know and learn how they are produced! Check out our collection of 14 fascinating protein synthesis activities to learn more!
1. Virtual lab
We know that DNA and its processes are very complex, but students will appreciate interactive visual content that can demonstrate the process of protein synthesis in a dynamic way. Simulate transcription and learn vocabulary using our virtual lab!
Learn More: Lab Aid
2. Interactive platform
You can teach about ongoing protein synthesis using our interactive learning platform. This is fun even for professionals! Simulations and videos visually illustrate each stage of translation and transcription.
Learn More: Learn Genetics
3. How do fireflies make light?
Help students understand the functions of DNA and cells by showing them real-life examples. Students will learn about the genome, the luciferase gene, RNA polymerase, ATP energy, and how they are used to create the light in firefly tails.
Learn More: Learn Genetics
4. Protein Synthesis Game
Put your students’ knowledge of amino acids, DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis into practice with this fun game! Students must transcribe DNA and match the correct codon cards to create the correct protein sequence.
More information: Teachers pay teachers
After learning about DNA, RNA, and/or protein synthesis, you can create an online quiz game to make it fun for all your students to test their knowledge. Before you play, review vocabulary such as elongation, inhibition of protein synthesis, injection, transcription, and translation.
6. Twizzler DNA Model
Make your DNA model out of candy! You can easily introduce the nucleobases that make up DNA and extend it to translation, transcription, and even protein synthesis!
More information: FYR Classroom
7. Folded DNA replication
Have students create a large graphic organizer to help them remember the sequences and concepts of DNA replication and all its processes in a large foldable. And once this is done, we can move on to the folding formula for protein synthesis!
Learn more: Tangstar video
8. Synthesis of Folded Proteins
After completing the DNA foldable, students should complete an overview of protein synthesis. They are asked to take detailed notes on transcription, translation, modifications, polypeptides, and amino acids to acquire knowledge.
More information: YouTube
9. Word search
Word searches are a great activity to introduce your class to protein synthesis. The goal is to learn the concepts of DNA and RNA and introduce keywords related to protein synthesis. You can even personalize your word search!
Learn more: Printable creatives
Practice common definitions of protein synthesis with crosswords! Students will demonstrate knowledge of translation and transcription as well as key words such as ribosomes, pyrimidines, amino acids and codons.
More information: WordMint
Like any non-academic bingo game, you can interact with your students and practice what they have learned. After reading the definitions, students cover the corresponding spaces on the bingo card.
More information: Bingo Baker
12. Play with a spoon
Got an extra card? Then play Spoon! This is a great way to motivate students and quickly review concepts. Pick 13 vocabularies, write one on each card until each vocabulary has his four, then play Spoon as normal.
Read more: Jennifer Findley
13. Fly swatter game
Write vocabulary related to protein synthesis and DNA replication in the classroom. Then divide the students into teams and give each team a fly swatter. Read the hints and have your students tap the words that correspond to the clues!
More information: Laura Randazzo
14. Use puzzles
A fun way to practice protein synthesis is with puzzles! Not an easy topic to memorize and the concepts are very complex. Involve your child in the review process with these amazing Tarsia puzzles.
More information: Tess