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KS Science logoKS ScienceKelly Sweitzer · Grades 6–12
Grades 9–12Transcription & translationSC.912.L.16.5≈ 40 min · PDF + editable DOCX

How a Firefly's Tail Makes Light

A guided video exploration of gene expression. Students watch a free 90-second Learn.Genetics animation and follow one gene, luc, as it's transcribed into mRNA, translated into the luciferase enzyme, and finally makes light. Eight original questions, answered in their own words.

Free resources / How a Firefly's Tail Makes Light

What's included

Inside the download

  • Guided video-exploration worksheet: Parts A–C, 8 questions, with the page link and QR codes
  • Complete answer key with sample responses
  • Teacher guide and lesson plan (launch, explore, discuss) with a site section map
  • Editable Word and print-ready PDF versions of everything
  • Uses the free, no-login, non-Flash video at Learn.Genetics; plays on Chromebooks, tablets, and phones
  • Florida SC.912.L.16.5 primary; supports NGSS HS-LS1-1

Preview

See what you're getting

Video exploration worksheet page 1
Worksheet, page 1
Video exploration worksheet page 2
Worksheet, page 2
Teacher guide and lesson plan
Teacher guide & lesson plan

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Goes deeper

Transcription & Translation Interactive: How Fireflies Glow

The full interactive lesson built around the same firefly model.
Related

Why Fireflies Flash: Natural Selection Webquest

Same fireflies, different unit: adaptation and natural selection.
Bundle

Protein Synthesis Bundle

Transcription, translation, and gene expression resources, fireflies included.

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