b) Create three relevant questions that you would like answered or clarified about the role of DNA and chromosomes. Focus on the following areas as you generate questions: i. The cause and effect relationship between the genetic code and gene expression ii. Mechanisms of gene regulation iii. The role of DNA segments that do not code for proteins c) Make sure your questions are scientific questions, meaning they could be tested by scientists.

Assignment Summary
In this assignment, you will think of scientific questions that will help you better understand the role of
DNA and chromosomes in the expression of heritable traits in an organism. You will then conduct
research to answer these questions. Finally, you will compose a typewritten document that states your
questions and provides your answers.
Background Information
DNA in the nucleus of a cell contains the genetic code that dictates the structure and function of
organisms. DNA is compressed into structures called chromosomes. Chromosomes are made of
segments of DNA called genes. Genes are the basic units of heredity in organisms and are transferred
from parent to offspring.
DNA contains the genetic code, or the set of instructions, in the form of triplet codons, for assembling
amino acids into proteins. All organisms share a similar genetic code based on the same DNA codons.
The order of the codons differs, allowing for diversity among organisms.
Not all DNA codes for proteins. Some segments of DNA are involved in regulatory or structural functions.
The function of other segments remains unknown.
Assignment Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for the project.
a) Read the entire Student Guide before you begin this project.
b) If anything is not clear to you, ask your teacher for assistance before you begin.
c) Gather the materials you will need to complete this project.
Step 2: Create your questions.
a) Review the lesson and reread the background information.
b) Create three relevant questions that you would like answered or clarified about the role of
DNA and chromosomes. Focus on the following areas as you generate questions:
i. The cause and effect relationship between the genetic code and gene expression
ii. Mechanisms of gene regulation
iii. The role of DNA segments that do not code for proteins
c) Make sure your questions are scientific questions, meaning they could be tested by scientists.