Isolating and Analyzing DNA Lab

Students will extract DNA from different food samples to see that DNA is found in all living things. We will then analyze the structure of DNA, examining the purine and pyrimidine molecules that compose the nitrogenous bases. Students will complete a hands-on activity that teaches them how gel electrophoresis is used in crime scenes, paternity tests, and heredity tests to determine who’s DNA belongs to who. I always finish each of my labs with a quiz that indicates what each student has learned!