How Do You Make A DNA Model Out Of Foam Balls?
Learning thorough doing helps increase understanding. What better way to learn about DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) than to build a model? You can make an accurate model of DNA from foam balls and toothpicks. Step 1 Remove any splinters from the wooden plaque; sand if needed. Step 2 Find the middle of the plaque. Measure from one end of the plaque to the other and divide by 2. Repeat for the sides. Mark the middle with a pencil using the measurements. Step 3 Drill down 1/4 inch into the middle of the plaque. Drip glue into the hole and insert the dowel rod. You now have a stand for your model. Step 4 If you are using white balls, divide them into six groups of 16 each. (If you are using pre-colored balls, skip to Step 6.) Step 5 Choose colors to represent the “backbone” of the DNA “ladder,” the pentose sugar molecule and the phosphate molecule. Paint 16 balls one color and 16 more the other color. Step 6 Choose colors for the nucleotide bases. These are the “rungs” of the ladder and are t
