Free online teaching resources
Amino Acid Workshop: Structures and Peptide Bonds
Build amino acids, identify the amino group, carboxyl group and R group, observe peptide bond formation through condensation, and explore levels of protein structure.
What to exploreBuild amino acids and observe peptide bond formation.
Start with the general amino acid structure and assemble examples with different side chains. Observe the reacting groups and the peptide bond formed during condensation.
Using it in classTrace reacting groups and explain peptide bonds.
For teaching the general amino acid structure, identifying R groups, and explaining peptide bond formation in the proteins unit.
Ask students to check the structural features of each amino acid, then follow the water released during chain formation and explain the relationship between amino acid and peptide bond counts.