The structure of DNA: including nucleotides

Combined science

Pupils will learn about unspecialised cells in animals and plants, how they become specialised, and potential benefits and issues with using stem cells in medicine. 

Pupils learned about dominant and recessive alleles, and how to use models of single gene inheritance to make predictions about the genotypes and phenotypes of offspring.

This unit covers mitosis and the cell cycle in growth, cancer as uncontrolled cell division, and the role of mutations in genetic variation. It explains meiosis in gamete formation and chromosome reduction. The emphasis is on recording observations and interpreting patterns to draw conclusions.

Cell division: mitosis and meiosis

Which words describe the structure of DNA?

DNA is made from single repeating subunits called ...

Nucleotides are inverted on one strand of DNA.

The sugar phosphate backbone includes the base of a nucleotide.

Which of these statements about DNA are true?

Bases only pair in a certain way; A-T and C-G.

The double helix DNA unwinds before copying.

Four copies of the same double helix DNA are created.

Which of the following statements about copying DNA are true?

Use the diagram to match the letter to the correct part of the nucleotide.

A single subunit that makes up a long repeating chain.

A long chain of repeating subunits called monomers.

Which of the following is the definition of a polymer?

Contains DNA and controls cell activities.

Made from coiled DNA; humans have 23 pairs in their nuclei.

A polymer with a double helix structure; carries the genetic material.

Match each structure to its correct definition. 

The chromatids are pulled to either end of the cell.

The DNA and sub-cellular structures are copied.

What happens during interphase in the cell cycle?

Which type of cell division creates two genetically identical cells?

Which term describes a cell with a membrane bound nucleus?

Starter Quiz