DNA, Genes and Chromosomes Viewer

The DNA Genes and Chromosomes Viewer is a browser-based app designed for exploring DNA structures in an engaging 3D format. Compatible with any modern browser, it supports circular and linear DNA visualization with real annotations.

• Students can use the built in tutorial feature to first learn about DNA, then genes, then chromosomes.
• Educators also receive a Lesson with an answer key. 
• Advanced users can upload their own GenBank files. Ideal for educators and students to learn the basics of DNA (ATCGs, base pairings, primary/complementary strands, asymmetric B-DNA helix, anti-parallel strands, circular DNA), gene structure (promoter, ribosomal binding sites, coding sequences), and chromosomes( collections of genetic elements - a plasmid as a simple example). 

The DNA Genes and Chromosomes Viewer offers real-time sequence editing, zooming, rotating, and highlighting of features. Most exciting is the immersive Gamer View that enables you to fly in a 3D world next to the actual DNA (with real DNA sequences used by scientists all around the world).

The DNA Viewer aligns with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) for middle school (Grades 6-8) and high school (Grades 9-12), supporting essential concepts in genetics, molecular biology, heredity, biotechnology, and evolution. This interactive tool allows students to visualize DNA structures, mutations, inheritance patterns, and gene expression, reinforcing key NGSS Performance Expectations (PEs), Disciplinary Core Ideas (DCIs), and Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs). By engaging in model-based learning and scientific inquiry, students meet NGSS expectations related to the structure and function of DNA, genetic inheritance, mutation-driven variation, and the role of genetics in evolution.

NGSS Alignment by Grade Level

Middle School (Grades 6-8)
• MS-LS1-1 – From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes – Students construct explanations of how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins, which carry out essential life functions.
• MS-LS1-3 – From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes – Students use models to demonstrate how cellular structures (including DNA) work together to sustain life.
• MS-LS3-1 – Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits – Students analyze and interpret data on how traits are inherited and how genetic variation occurs.


High School (Grades 9-12)
• HS-LS1-1 – From Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes – Students develop models to illustrate how DNA structure and replication contribute to genetic inheritance.
• HS-LS3-1 – Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits – Students analyze DNA sequences to explain how mutations contribute to genetic diversity.
• HS-LS3-2 – Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits – Students make and defend claims about how meiosis and recombination contribute to genetic diversity.
• HS-LS3-3 – Heredity: Inheritance and Variation of Traits – Students apply statistical and probability models to explain genetic variation in populations.
• HS-LS4-1 – Biological Evolution: Unity and Diversity – Students analyze evidence of genetic variation and its role in evolution.

Scientific and Engineering Practices (SEPs) Supported
• SEP1: Asking Questions & Defining Problems – Encourages students to explore genetic variation and mutation-driven change.
• SEP2: Developing & Using Models – Provides a hands-on, interactive DNA model to enhance understanding.
• SEP4: Analyzing & Interpreting Data – Helps students observe, manipulate, and study real DNA sequences.

Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs) Supported
• CC6: Structure & Function – Demonstrates the relationship between DNA structure and its function in inheritance.
• CC7: Stability & Change – Allows students to explore how mutations introduce genetic changes over time.

Unlock 3 months of unlimited access to the DNA, Genes and Chromosomes Viewer—and for educators, our comprehensive Activity/Lesson Guide. Once you complete your purchase, you'll receive a PDF with your unique access link.

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The DNA Viewer aligns with science curricula across Canada, including Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, and New Brunswick, supporting key topics in genetics, molecular biology, heredity, biotechnology, and evolution from Grades 7 to 12. This interactive tool allows students to visualize DNA structures, mutations, and inheritance patterns, helping them meet curriculum objectives related to the molecular basis of life, gene expression, and the role of DNA in biological processes. It serves as an engaging resource for science education, reinforcing essential genetic and biological concepts aligned with Canadian learning standards.


Alberta Science Curriculum
• Grade 7 – Cells and Systems: Structure and function of cells, including the nucleus and genetic material.
• Grade 9 – Reproduction and Heredity: DNA and inheritance, mutations, and genetic variation.
• Grade 10 – Molecular Biology: DNA replication and the transmission of genetic material.
• Grade 11 (Biology 20) – Molecular Genetics: Structure of DNA, gene expression, and mutations.
• Grade 12 (Biology 30) – Genetics and Molecular Biology: Role of genetic variation and gene mutations in evolution and genetic diseases.

British Columbia Science Curriculum
• Grade 7 – Cells and Organisms:
Explore the structure and function of DNA within cells.
• Grade 8 – Reproduction and Heredity:
Examine how DNA is passed between generations.
• Grade 9 – Genetics and Evolution:
Investigate DNA mutations and genetic variation.
• Grade 10 – Molecular Genetics & Biotechnology:
Analyze DNA replication, gene expression, and its role in biotechnology.
• Grade 11 (Biology) – Molecular Genetics & Evolution:
Study DNA’s role in gene expression and inheritance.
• Grade 12 (Biology) – Genetics and Evolution:
Evaluate genetic mutations, variation, and biotechnology applications.

Manitoba Science Curriculum
• Grade 7 – Cells and Systems: Explore DNA structure and its role in encoding genetic information within cells.
• Grade 8 – Heredity: Investigate the function of DNA in inheritance and cellular processes.
• Grade 9 – Genetics: Examine DNA replication, mutations, and their contribution to genetic variation.
• Grade 10 – Molecular Biology: Analyze processes of DNA replication, transcription, and translation.
• Grades 11–12 – Advanced Biology: Study molecular genetics, gene expression, and biotechnological applications related to DNA.

New Brunswick Science Curriculum
• Grade 7 – Cells and Systems: Understand DNA’s role in cellular functions and genetic inheritance.
• Grade 8 – Heredity: Investigate DNA and its function in trait inheritance.
• Grade 9 – Reproduction and Heredity / Genetics and Evolution: Explore DNA replication, mutations, and their impact on genetic variation.
• Grade 10 – Genetics and Molecular Biology: Examine DNA replication and the transmission of genetic material.
• Grade 11 (Biology) – Molecular Genetics: Analyze DNA structure, gene expression, and mutation effects.
• Grade 12 (Biology) – Genetics and Molecular Biology / Biotechnology: Evaluate DNA’s role in genetic inheritance, mutations, and its applications in biotechnology.

Nova Scotia Science Curriculum (DNA Viewer)
• Grade 7 – Cellular Biology: Explore the structure and function of DNA within cells.
• Grade 8 – Heredity: Investigate the role of DNA in the transmission of genetic information.
• Grade 9 – Genetics: Examine DNA replication, mutations, and genetic variation.
• Grade 10 – Molecular Biology & Biotechnology: Analyze processes of DNA replication, transcription, and translation.
• Grade 11 – Molecular Genetics: Study DNA’s role in gene expression and inheritance.
• Grade 12 – Genetics and Evolution: Evaluate the impact of DNA mutations on genetic variation and applications in biotechnology.

Ontario Science Curriculum
• Grade 7 – Understanding Life Systems – Cells: Explore the role of DNA in cellular function and genetic inheritance.
• Grade 8 – Heredity: Analyze DNA structure and its role in trait inheritance.
• Grade 9 – Diversity of Living Things: Investigate DNA’s contribution to genetic variation and inheritance.
• Grade 10 – Genetics: Examine DNA mutations and their effects on trait inheritance using interactive visualizations.
• Grade 11 (Biology, University Prep) – Molecular Genetics: Study DNA structure, replication, and genetic variation.
• Grade 12 (Biology, University Prep) – Genetics and Molecular Biology: Explore DNA-based inheritance, mutations, and biotechnological applications.

Prince Edward Island (PEI) Science Curriculum (DNA Viewer)
• Grade 7 – Cells and Systems: Explore DNA’s structure and its role in cellular functions.
• Grade 8 – Heredity: Investigate DNA and its function in genetic inheritance.
• Grade 9 – Genetics: Examine DNA replication, mutation, and genetic variation.
• Grade 10 – Molecular Biology: Analyze DNA replication, transcription, and gene expression.
• Grade 11 – Molecular Genetics: Study the structure and function of DNA, including the effects of mutations.
• Grade 12 – Genetics and Biotechnology: Evaluate DNA’s role in genetic inheritance, mutation, and its applications in biotechnology.

Quebec Science Curriculum
• Secondaire 1 (Grade 7) – Systèmes biologiques:
Explore DNA structure and its function within cells.
• Secondaire 2 (Grade 8) – Hérédité:
Investigate DNA’s role in the inheritance of traits.
• Secondaire 3 (Grade 9) – Génétique:
Analyze DNA replication, mutation, and genetic variation.
• Secondaire 4 (Grade 10) – Biologie moléculaire:
Examine DNA processes such as replication, transcription, and translation.
• Secondaire 5 (Grade 11) – Génétique moléculaire:
Study DNA structure, gene expression, and the effects of mutations.
• (Grade 12) – Biotechnologie:
Evaluate DNA’s role in genetic inheritance, mutations, and biotechnological applications.

Saskatchewan Science Curriculum
• Grade 7 – Cells and Systems: Understand the structure and function of DNA in cells.
• Grade 8 – Heredity: Investigate the role of DNA in genetic inheritance.
• Grade 9 – Genetics and Evolution: Explore DNA replication, mutation, and genetic variation.
• Grade 10 – Molecular Genetics & Biotechnology: Analyze DNA processes including replication, transcription, and translation.
• Grade 11 – Advanced Biology: Study molecular genetics, gene expression, and the impact of mutations.
• Grade 12 – Genetics and Biotechnology: Evaluate DNA’s role in inheritance, genetic variation, and biotechnological applications.