Curriculum Standards

        Students will learn the structure & function of the DNA molecule, as well as the researchers that worked on the molecule.  The students will directly learn the following TEKS.

Science Standards for Texas (TEKS)

Biology

(3)            Scientific processes. The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:

(A)            analyze, review, and critique scientific explanations, including hypotheses and theories, as to their strengths and weaknesses using scientific evidence and information;

(B)            evaluate promotional claims that relate to biological issues such as product labeling and advertisements;

(C)            evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment;

(D)           describe the connection between biology and future careers;

(E)            evaluate models according to their adequacy in representing biological objects or events; and

(F)             research and describe the history of biology and contributions of scientists.

 

(6)            Science concepts. The student knows the structures and functions of nucleic acids in the mechanisms of genetics. The student is expected to:

(A)            describe components of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), and illustrate how information for specifying the traits of an organism is carried in the DNA;

(B)            explain replication, transcription, and translation using models of DNA and ribonucleic acid (RNA);

(C)            identify and illustrate how changes in DNA cause mutations and evaluate the significance of these changes;

 

Chemistry

(3)            Scientific processes. The student uses critical thinking and scientific problem solving to make informed decisions. The student is expected to:

(A)            analyze, review, and critique scientific explanations, including hypotheses and theories, as to their strengths and weaknesses using scientific evidence and information;

(B)            make responsible choices in selecting everyday products and services using scientific information;

(C)            evaluate the impact of research on scientific thought, society, and the environment;

(D)           describe the connection between chemistry and future careers; and

(E)            research and describe the history of chemistry and contributions of scientists.

 

(8)    Science concepts. The student knows how atoms form bonds to acquire a stable arrangement of electrons. The student is expected to:

(D)           identify characteristics of atoms involved in chemical bonding;

(E)            investigate and compare the physical and chemical properties of ionic and covalent compounds;

(F)             compare the arrangement of atoms in molecules, ionic crystals, polymers, and metallic substances; and

(G)           describe the influence of intermolecular forces on the physical and chemical properties of covalent compounds.

 

        Students will also learn a variety of new skills such as computer applications and internet research skills.  Students will also learn to design and host a party that is designed to educate as well as entertain.  They will learn the necessity of producing press releases and contacting professionals in the scientific community