Did you know that proteins are chemical compounds found in all living cells? You can find them in milk, eggs, blood, and in all kinds of seeds. Their diversity and complexity are incredible, however, in structure, they all follow the same simple scheme. Therefore, it never hurts to know and learn how they are produced! Check out our collection of 14 engaging protein synthesis activities to learn more!
1. Virtual Lab
We know that DNA and its processes are extremely complex, but surely your students will value interactive and visual content that can show them the process of protein synthesis in a dynamic way. Use a virtual lab to simulate transcription and learn the vocabulary!
Learn More: Lab-Aids
2. Interactive Platforms
You can use an interactive learning platform to teach about ongoing protein synthesis which is entertaining even for experts! Simulations and videos explain each phase of translation and transcription visually.
Learn More: Learn Genetics
3. How Do Fireflies Make Light?
Give your students real-life examples to make DNA and cellular functions easier to understand. Students will learn about the genome, luciferase gene, RNA polymerase, and ATP energy and how they are used to create the light in a firefly’s tail.
Learn More: Learn Genetics
4. Protein Synthesis Game
Have your students practice their knowledge about amino acids, DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis in this fun game! Students will have to transcribe DNA, then match the correct codon cards to create the correct protein sequence.
Learn More: Teachers Pay Teachers
After learning about DNA, RNA, and/ or Protein Synthesis, you can create an online quiz game for all your students to test their knowledge in a fun way. Before playing, be sure to review vocabularies such as elongation, inhibition of protein synthesis, infusion, transcription, and translation.
6. Twizzler DNA Model
Create your DNA model from candy! You can give a brief introduction to the nucleobases that make up DNA and then extend it into translation, transcription, and even protein synthesis!
Learn More: FYR Classroom
7. Foldable DNA Replication
Have your students create a large graphic organizer that will help them remember the sequences and concepts of DNA replication and all of its processes with a large foldable! Then, after completing this, they can move on to the foldable for protein synthesis!
Learn More: Tangstar Videos
8. Foldable Protein Synthesis
After completing the DNA foldable, students should complete an overview of protein synthesis. They will be asked to take detailed notes on transcription, translation, modifications, polypeptides, and amino acids to master their knowledge.
Learn More: Youtube
9. Word Search
Words searches are a great activity to introduce your class to protein synthesis. The goal will to be remember some concepts of DNA and RNA and introduce keywords regarding protein synthesis. You can even personalize your word search!
Learn More: Printable Creative
Practice the general definitions of protein synthesis with a crossword! Students will show their knowledge of translation and transcription as well as keywords such as ribosomes, pyrimidine, amino acids, codons, and more.
Learn More: WordMint
Like any Bingo game outside of the academic field, you will be able to interact with your students and practice what they learned. Read the definition and students will cover the corresponding space on their bingo card.
Learn More: Bingo Baker
12. Play Spoons
Have an extra pair of cards with you? Then play spoons! It’s a great way to motivate your students and quickly review concepts. Pick 13 vocabulary words and write one on each card until you have four of each vocabulary word, then play Spoons as you would normally!
Learn More: Jennifer Findley
13. Fly Swatter Game
Write some vocabulary words relating to protein synthesis and DNA replication around your classroom. Then, divide your students into teams and hand each team a fly swatter. Read hints and have your students run to swat the word that corresponds to your clue!
Learn More: Laura Randazzo
14. Use Puzzles
A fun way to practice protein synthesis is by using puzzles! It is not an easy topic to memorize and the concepts are very complex. Get your children engaged in the review process with these awesome Tarsia puzzles.
Learn More: Tes