Forensics, Paternity, Disease, and Evolution Analysis.
This digital lesson introduces students to DNA analysis using gel electrophoresis by guiding them through the key techniques and reasoning involved in generating and interpreting DNA banding patterns.
Students begin by examining PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) through a short video and written explanation of how DNA is amplified. They then apply this understanding by writing complementary DNA strands in a simulated PCR activity.
Next, students:
use restriction enzymes to cut DNA sequences
count and compare fragment lengths
predict how fragments will separate during electrophoresis
Students then model gel electrophoresis by placing DNA bands in the correct positions on a gel based on fragment size. This builds a concrete understanding of how DNA moves through a gel matrix and how banding patterns form.
Students apply these skills to real-world scenarios by analyzing gels related to:
forensic investigations
paternity testing
genetic disease identification
evolutionary relationships
They complete additional practice problems to reinforce pattern interpretation and accuracy.
As a culminating application, students analyze viral RNA using gel electrophoresis to determine its likely species of origin, connecting molecular techniques to modern biological research.
This lesson is designed to support:
understanding of PCR and restriction enzymes
interpretation of gel electrophoresis results
connection between molecular processes and real data
application of biotechnology to real-world problems
It functions well as:
a core biotechnology lesson
an applied genetics investigation
or an extension after instruction on DNA structure and mutation
To preview this lesson, click here.
NGSS Alignment (High School):
HS-LS1-1; HS-LS3-1; HS-LS4-1
Science & Engineering Practices (SEPs):
Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Constructing Explanations
Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs):
Structure and Function
Cause and Effect
Patterns
Common Core (Literacy in Science):
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-10.1 / RST.11-12.1
Forensics, Paternity, Disease, and Evolution Analysis.
This digital lesson introduces students to DNA analysis using gel electrophoresis by guiding them through the key techniques and reasoning involved in generating and interpreting DNA banding patterns.
Students begin by examining PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) through a short video and written explanation of how DNA is amplified. They then apply this understanding by writing complementary DNA strands in a simulated PCR activity.
Next, students:
use restriction enzymes to cut DNA sequences
count and compare fragment lengths
predict how fragments will separate during electrophoresis
Students then model gel electrophoresis by placing DNA bands in the correct positions on a gel based on fragment size. This builds a concrete understanding of how DNA moves through a gel matrix and how banding patterns form.
Students apply these skills to real-world scenarios by analyzing gels related to:
forensic investigations
paternity testing
genetic disease identification
evolutionary relationships
They complete additional practice problems to reinforce pattern interpretation and accuracy.
As a culminating application, students analyze viral RNA using gel electrophoresis to determine its likely species of origin, connecting molecular techniques to modern biological research.
This lesson is designed to support:
understanding of PCR and restriction enzymes
interpretation of gel electrophoresis results
connection between molecular processes and real data
application of biotechnology to real-world problems
It functions well as:
a core biotechnology lesson
an applied genetics investigation
or an extension after instruction on DNA structure and mutation
To preview this lesson, click here.
NGSS Alignment (High School):
HS-LS1-1; HS-LS3-1; HS-LS4-1
Science & Engineering Practices (SEPs):
Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Constructing Explanations
Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Crosscutting Concepts (CCCs):
Structure and Function
Cause and Effect
Patterns
Common Core (Literacy in Science):
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RST.9-10.1 / RST.11-12.1
