Make A Candy DNA Model

Introduction

Ever wondered how DNA, the genetic blueprint of a life-form, can encode and pass on the information on how to grow and maintain that life-form? Just like a cookbook contains a complete recipe for a dish, DNA stores the recipe for the life of an organism. Although each human has a unique DNA sequence, the DNA in all of us is about 99.9% identical! In this activity, you will use pieces of candy to make a model for a short section of DNA—enough to get a sense of what DNA is like and how it encodes life.

Credits

Materials

• Soft candy that comes in four different colors such as gummy bears, gum drops, or mini marshmallows (10 of each color)
• Twizzlers (2) (or similar rope-like candy)
• Toothpicks (5)
• Paper
• Pen (or marker)
• Paper towel