The Wonders of DNA:
In the classroom:
Kit A
- Extract DNA from plants- Pull fibers of DNA out of spinach or
other plants. Illustrates the amazing packaging of DNA inside
the cell. Allows students to see DNA!
(targets 6th -12th graders)
Kit B
- Pack simulated DNA into a cell- students experience the
challenge that viruses, bacteria and cells undergo to package
their genomic DNA. As part of this exercise, the student also
sees just how fragile the DNA is when unprotected.
(targets 6th -12th graders)
Kit C
- The Genetic Code- Learn the genetic code by writing in code.
Kids love to write secret notes. Use the genetic code to illustrate
the processes of replication, transcription and translation.
(targets 6th -8th graders)
Kit D
- DNA bracelet- Students learn about the DNA double helix and
the genetic code by building a DNA bracelet that they can wear.
Kit E
- Build a DNA model - lightweight, can be used in activities
illustrating how DNA and RNA interact to form the double helix,
replication and even transcription.
(targets 6th - 10th graders)
Kit F
- Preparation of Competent E.coli and Transformation- How do
bacteria take up foreign DNA such as genes for antibiotic
resistance? This exercise will let the student prepare bacteria to
take up foreign DNA, transform the bacteria with plasmid DNA
with antibiotic resistance and to determine the transformation
efficiency.
(targets 9th -12th grade)
Kit G
- Introduction to Molecular Cloning- Learn how restriction
enzymes work by digesting plasmid DNA. Use T4 DNA ligase to
introduce foreign DNA into plasmid DNA.
(targets 9th -12th grades)
Genetics
Kit H-Dhydei
- Genetics with fruit flies: Culture of Drosophila hydei. Flies are
winged but genetically paralyzed so cannot fly. Approximately 3-
4 mm in length so easier to see that D. malangaster. Easy to
culture
Kit I-Dmal
- Genetics with fruit flies: Culture of Drosophila malangaster.
Flies are wingless. Easy to culture.
In collaboration with SFASU:
- Learn about the genome projects and how genes code for
proteins: Sequence the chromosome of E.coli in the
classroom, send the samples to SFASU for sequence analysis,
students receive results and use common bioinformatics tools
to identify genes and the proteins that may be encoded.
Targets 9th -12th grade. Need a thermocycler (www.biorad.com; www.
Edvotek.com) or contact Bea Clack for other possibilities.
To request any of the above kits or other opportunities, please contact
me at bclack@sfasu.edu.
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