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DNA Earrings

DNA Earrings
I saw DNA jewelry somewhere online a long time ago when I didn't even have pierced ears.  I almost pierced my ears that day so I could wear them, but it looked complicated and I didn't have a lot of time on my hands.  This year, I've been making them for all my friends and coworkers as Christmas presents---you can too!  They'll even forgive you for their presents being belated since they are so cool.



I'm a high school science teacher.  I thought this would be a fun way for my students to learn the structure of DNA.  Next year, I'll have them make a more educational "model" and come in after school to make these.

I've added tips that I would find helpful when making these as well as some science insights so you can impress all your friends with your DNA brilliance!


 
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Step 1Materials

Materials
*2 pieces of 20 cm (8 in) long 28 gauge wire

*6 different colors of seed beads
  -28 beads to represent sugars
  -28 beads to represent phosphates
  -8 beads to represent Adenine
  -8 beads to represent Thymine
  -8 beads to represent Cytosine
  -8 beads to represent Guanine

*2 earring hooks

*2 earring backs (optional)


Additional possibly useful notes:
-The length of wire does not have to be exact.  20 cm is a good beginning length.  I'm able to use slightly shorter pieces now, but started with really long pieces.
-The number of beads used (and length of wire) can be altered to make the earrings longer. 
-The earring backs are not necessary, but they were only about $3 for an entire package at Michael's.

-The number of Adenine and Thymine beads should be equal, as should the Guanine and Cytosine.  (Chargaff's Rule for you science buffs.) However, you don't have to have 8 of each or have them in any specific order.




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4 comments
Mar 18, 2010. 6:48 AMvincent7312 says:
(removed by author or community request)
Dec 30, 2009. 7:45 PMromashka404 says:
These are so creative! way to help kids learn!
Dec 24, 2009. 7:58 PMoctopuscabbage says:
i whish my ears were peirced....Then i could be a Dna pirate!!!

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