In this lab, students will:

  • Explore DNA’s structure, role, and relationship to proteins.
  • Set up a restriction digest of DNA from a “crime scene.”
  • Compare suspect DNA to crime scene DNA by performing gel electrophoresis.
  • Explore how genetic signatures are used in forensics and other applications.

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Standards:

  • B-LS1-1. Construct an explanation based on evidence for how the structure of DNA determines the structure of proteins, which carry out the essential functions of life through systems of specialized cells.
  • B-LS3-1. Ask questions to clarify relationships about the role of DNA and chromosomes in coding the instructions for characteristic traits passed from parents to offspring.

Typical Schedule*:

9:00 – 9:15 Arrive/walk to the lab
9:30 Start lab (up to 64 students**)
11:30 – 12:00 End lab or break for lunch (~1hr)
12:30 – 1:00 Start lab again
1:30 – 2:00 Depart

*Schedule can be adjusted to meet your school’s needs
**If you have more than 64 students, see large group schedule
***Given your needs, we can end the lab before or after lunch

Typical Large Group Schedule*:

9:00 – 9:15 Arrive/walk to the lab
9:30 – 11:45 Lab for A group** (up to 64 students)
11:45 – 12:45 Switch groups
12:45 – 3:00 Lab for B group*** (up to 64 students)
3:00 Depart

*Schedule can be adjusted to meet your school’s needs
**B group participates in another campus activity; school chaperones arrange
***A group participates in another campus activity; school chaperones arrange