Year 10 Science · Unit 1 · Lesson 3

DNA Replication and Cell Division

Foundation Worksheet

Name
Date
Class

Learning Goals

Order the steps

Number the events from 1 to 7 to show the correct order of DNA replication. Event 1 = what happens first.

OrderEvent
DNA polymerase adds complementary nucleotides to each template strand
The cell uses its new DNA copies during cell division
Helicase enzyme unwinds and separates the two DNA strands at the replication fork
Two identical DNA molecules are produced, each with one original and one new strand
Proofreading enzymes check the new strand for copying errors
The double helix begins to unzip at a specific starting point on the chromosome
Ligase enzyme seals any remaining gaps in the new strand, completing the new molecule

True or False? Fix the false ones

Circle T or F for each statement. If the statement is false, rewrite it correctly on the line below.

DNA replication is described as semi-conservative because each new DNA molecule contains one original strand and one newly made strand.

Correct it:

T
F

Helicase adds new nucleotides to the growing DNA strand during replication.

Correct it:

T
F

Meiosis produces 4 daughter cells, each containing half the original number of chromosomes (23 in humans).

Correct it:

T
F

DNA replication occurs after cell division is complete, so the new cells can rebuild their DNA.

Correct it:

T
F

1. Explain why DNA must be replicated before a cell divides. What would happen if a cell divided without first copying its DNA?

Recall 2 marks

2. State two purposes of mitosis in the human body.

Recall 2 marks

Wrap Up

In one sentence, what was the main idea of this lesson?