We have a range of activities and resources that can be used in primary schools on our website www.yourgenome.org. Below are a selection that we recommend to introduce basic concepts of DNA, gene and genomes as well as microbiology.
Introducing DNA
The following hands-on activities can be used to introduce the concept of DNA and its double helix structure.
Yummy Gummy DNA – Build a DNA helix from jelly babies and cocktail sticks.
Sequence bracelets – Find out more about how DNA and its chemical letters A, T, G and C with this bracelet making activity.
DNA origami – This hands-on activity allows you to create your own paper model of a DNA double helix.
Microbiology activities
The following activities can be used to introduce the topic of microbes and how some pathogens can be spread.
Balloon bugs – Discover more about the basic shape and structure of different bacteria through this balloon modelling activity.
Handshake Hazard – Demonstrate how microbes can be spread through hand to hand contact.
Contamination detectives – Play detective and uncover how microbes spread around the surfaces you touch if you don’t wash your hands properly!
Sneeze Zone – How far can a sneeze spread a virus? Find out with this fun activity.
