Protein Synthesis Unit

Centered around the essential question, “How does the information in our DNA lead to the traits we see in our bodies?”, this unit guides students through the entire process of protein synthesis—from the Central Dogma to codon recognition—in a way that’s clear, engaging, and genuinely fun to teach. Through step-by-step instruction, scaffolded practice, and meaningful checks for understanding, your students will gain a strong grasp of how DNA becomes protein—and why that matters.

Why Teachers Love This Resource:

• Breaks down the Central Dogma in a way students can actually explain back to you
• Reinforces tricky vocabulary like transcription, translation, codons, and mRNA with repeated exposure across formats
• Includes a fun Bingo game and codon decoding practice to boost engagement and retention
• Covers the full content cycle from introduction through formal assessment
• Comes with built-in comprehension checks, visuals, and no-prep handouts
• Supports standards like HS-LS1-1 and HS-LS1-3 by helping students explain how gene expression leads to protein function and observable traits.

What’s Inside:

• Unit Pacing Guide – A clear layout to help you structure 3–4 days of instruction with the essential question and estimated timing.
• Detailed Lesson Plan – Outlines goals, background knowledge, materials, and step-by-step instructions for each day.
• Central Dogma Presentation & Notes – Student-friendly slides walk through DNA → RNA → Protein with check-in questions, visuals, and real-life relevance.
• Homework Assignment – An 8-question reflection task that asks students to explain key concepts like transcription, translation, and gene regulation in their own words.
• Transcribe & Translate Practice Packet – Students apply their knowledge by decoding DNA sequences into mRNA and then translating them into amino acids using a codon chart. Includes a challenge question with error-checking and justification.
• Review Bingo Game – Students review key terms and concepts in an interactive, quiz-style format. Includes word bank, student version, teacher instructions, and an exit ticket.
• Protein Synthesis Quiz – A formal assessment covering all key content: transcription, translation, codon recognition, and vocabulary. Includes multiple-choice, short answer, and codon practice.
• Answer Keys – Every activity and the quiz comes with a full key to make your grading quick and easy.

Pro Tip: Want to bring it all together? After reviewing the Central Dogma, ask your students: “What would happen if one letter in the DNA sequence changed?” This is a great launch point for a conversation about mutations and protein function—and it ties right back to real-world genetics and traits.

⭐ Looking for quality resources and time-saving tips for your secondary science classroom?
☑ Follow Spectacular Science on TPT
☑ Subscribe to My Newsletter
☑ Check Out My Blog
☑ Follow Me on Instagram

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.
Thanks for visiting!
Jessica