How can you tell they’ve got it: DNA & Genes?

If they’ve got it, you’ll see things like: Describes DNA as a double helix with four bases (A, T, C, G) where A pairs with T and C pairs with G; Explains that a gene is a section of DNA that codes for a specific protein, and that proteins carry out most of the body's functions; Describes CRISPR as a molecular tool that can cut and edit DNA sequences, and raises at least two distinct ethical considerations about its use in humans. Or just try it together: If your child heard that scientists have edited a human gene to prevent a hereditary disease, could they explain what DNA actually is, how genes work, and why some people think editing human DNA raises serious ethical questions?

Science The Human Body Ages 12–14

DNA & Genes

Your child knows DNA is a twisted ladder that holds the body's instructions. A gene is a part of it that codes for a protein. New tools can now edit DNA, raising ethical questions.

In curriculum terms

Describe the double helix structure of DNA (base pairs, complementarity), explain how genes are sections of DNA that code for proteins, introduce the central dogma (DNA → mRNA → protein) conceptually, and discuss the ethical implications of CRISPR gene editing — including potential benefits (genetic disease treatment) and concerns (germline editing, 'designer babies')

Ages are typical, not deadlines — follow your child’s pace. How to help at home →

How to tell they’ve got it

Tick these off as you see them — no test required.

Describes DNA as a double helix with four bases (A, T, C, G) where A pairs with T and C pairs with G
Explains that a gene is a section of DNA that codes for a specific protein, and that proteins carry out most of the body's functions
Describes CRISPR as a molecular tool that can cut and edit DNA sequences, and raises at least two distinct ethical considerations about its use in humans

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Try this together

If your child heard that scientists have edited a human gene to prevent a hereditary disease, could they explain what DNA actually is, how genes work, and why some people think editing human DNA raises serious ethical questions?

Where this sits on the map

Stuck here? Check the skills it builds on first. Confident? Here’s what it unlocks.

Builds on

Chromosomes, Genes & DNAages 12–13DNA structure and replication depends on chromosomes and Mendelian inheritance

DNA & Genesthis skill · ages 12–14

Unlocks

Cancer & Stem Cellsages 13–14Advanced gene expression and genetic disease mechanisms depends on DNA structure and replication

Predicting Inherited Traitsages 13–14DNA structure depends on Punnett squares and inheritance patterns

solid = must come firstdashed = helps

Curriculum alignment

Where this fits in the official school curriculum — our best automated guess, not yet checked by a person.

This skill sits beyond Year 6 in the Australian Curriculum, so no F–6 code is matched. It also sits beyond the NSW K–6 syllabuses. It also sits beyond Level 6 in the Victorian Curriculum.

Nearby on the map

How the Body Stays in Balanceages 12–14 Cancer & Stem Cellsages 13–14 Immunity & Vaccinesages 11–13 Neurons & Brain Structureages 11–13

All The Human Body skills →