This model displays a piece of mRNA being copied from a segment of DNA; this process is called transcription.

a.) Where in the cell is the DNA found (examine the model)?

b.) Where in the cell is transcription taking place (examine the model)?

a.) What is being synthesized during transcription?

b.) What monomers are used to construct this molecule?

According to this model, what enzyme is used during transcription?

Notice on the model, where RNA polymerase is working, a small section of RNA and DNA are paired up. Notice the DNA and RNA nucleotides pair up in a similar manner that DNA nucleotides pair up.

a.) What is the name of the rule that describes how nucleotides pair up?

b.) According to the model, using the provided DNA nucleotides, what RNA nucleotides would pair with each?

DNA RNA

A

T

C

G

c.) According to the model, which strand of DNA is used to make the mRNA strand?

Contrast the mRNA at the top of the model with the mRNA at the bottom of the model.

a.) What was removed from the pre-mRNA to form the mRNA?

b.) What was added to the mRNA that was not present in the pre-mRNA?

Which molecule leaves the nucleus?

During translation, the mRNA will be read from 5' to 3' to make a protein. Examine the sequence of RNA nucleotides at the 5' end in the mRNA and the pre-mRNA; look at the labels of each section of nucleotides on the pre-mRNA.

a.) What do you think is the name of the area on the mRNA that is read first during translation?

b.) What is the sequence of RNA nucleotides of the area read first during translation?

What end of the mRNA is the methyl cap? What about the poly-A tail?