Option 1 - this may give too many clues about the overall process of protein synthesis which may be a source of answers for other items on the test.
Three types of RNA are involved in the production of proteins. Read the paragraph explaining protein synthesis. Choose the option that correctly identifies the missing terms, in order of appearance in the sentences.
Protein synthesis involves transcribing the genetic code from DNA. This type of RNA then carries the genetic code to the cytoplasm, where it attaches to a ribosome containing , so the ribosome can begin the assembly of polypeptides. brings amino acids to the ribosome and attaches their anticodons to the codons already in place.
Option 2 - this one does not include anything about the steps of PS, but focuses on recognizing the types of RNA from an image and connecting them to their correct function.
A student created a model of protein synthesis by needed help identifying the types of nucleic acids used in the process.

The student lists the functions of each type of RNA in the model using a data table.

Which types of RNA are labeled at part A, B and C in the model? Choose the answer that lists the RNA types in order A-C.
Option 3- In order to support this type of an item we would need to have kids practice this type of summary writing in class. Our goal for this year is to embed weekly writing activities so this could help us meet that goal.
Determine the correct response to complete the paragraph about the process of protein synthesis and the roles of RNA in each step.
The first step of protein synthesis is the creation of a molecule from DNA while in the . Then the leaves the nucleus and enters the . Then the attaches to a ribosome that is made out of . Individual amino acids are brought by creating a polypeptide chain.
Option 4 - I think this one best combines the original items, but it is bulky. I added the portion about locations, but that could be removed. I also think that this could be simplified by removing the step that the transcribed message leaves the nucleus. That would give us 3 steps, 3 locations (if we want to include them) and 3 types of RNA.
The table below shows the steps involved in protein synthesis.
Complete the table by:
Adding the correct order of the steps
Identifying the location of each step
Identifying the type of RNA involved
Determine the correct order of the steps of protein synthesis and identify the role of RNA in each step.
Step | Description | Location | Type of RNA involved |
|---|---|---|---|
Individual amino acids connect to form an amino acid chain | |||
Transcribed message leaves the nucleus | |||
Transcribed message attaches to a ribosome | |||
DNA is transcribed |

