Labs & Activities
Building Blocks of Life
Evolution
Genetics
High School
Molecular Biology
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The shape of a protein determines its function. In this lab, students will be given a hypothetical DNA sequence for part of an enzyme. Using the Universal Genetic Code, they will then determine the amino acid sequence coded for by the DNA. Students will examine a “substrate” and predict the… read more of the article entitled “Building Blocks of Life”
DNA Molecule Activity
Genetics
High School
Molecular Biology
This lab activity corresponds to CIBT’s DNA Molecule Model. Downloads DNA Molecule HS Student Edition (CIBT) DNA Molecule MS Student Edition (CIBT) DNA Molecule Post-Lab Questions (CIBT) Watson & Crick Reading (CIBT) Watson&Crick Reading Qs Student Edition (CIBT) Watson&Crick Reading Qs Teacher Edition (CIBT) DNA Blankenship Notes (CIBT)
DNA Profiling
Forensics
Genetics
High School
Inquiry/Scientific Method
Molecular Biology
This lab was designed to complement CIBT’s DNA Gel Electrophoresis kit. Students will cut DNA with restriction enzymes. The DNA fragments will be separated electrophoretically on an agarose gel. The results will simulate a DNA profile. Students can learn how this type of evidence is prepared and interpreted. Downloads DNA Profiling Teacher… read more of the article entitled “DNA Profiling”
Evolving Trees
Evolution
Genetics
High School
Inquiry/Scientific Method
This exercise introduces the basic methods of phylogenetic analysis. Students are asked to hypothesize the evolutionary relationships of groups of organisms based on traits, and to become familiar with the methods for building evolutionary trees using the basic principles of taxonomy and classification. Downloads Evolving Trees (Teacher Edition) Evolving Trees… read more of the article entitled “Evolving Trees”
How Many CATs
Genetics
High School
Molecular Biology
In this paper simulation, students will “cut” DNA samples from a mother, a baby, a husband, and a rape suspect using a “restriction endonuclease.” They will then “run” the DNA fragments on a “gel” to simulate the process of electrophoresis. A fluorescent probe is then washed over the gel. Finally,… read more of the article entitled “How Many CATs”
Insect GENEration
Genetics
Insects
Middle School
Molecular Biology
Students build a model insect based upon genetic information provided to them in the lab directions. Gene forms (alleles) contributed by each parent are determined by tossing a coin with one side representing the dominant form of the gene and the other side representing the recessive form. Student teams record… read more of the article entitled “Insect GENEration”
Protein Gel Electrophoresis
Animals
Evolution
Genetics
High School
Inquiry/Scientific Method
Molecular Biology
Students will separate a mixture of proteins from skeletal muscle using SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE). PAGE is a powerful analytical technique having numerous applications in modern biology. Evidence for evolutionary relatedness amongst organisms can be determined using this technique. Suggested organisms to compare include various fishes, mammals, poultry and/or… read more of the article entitled “Protein Gel Electrophoresis”
