DNA Fingerprinting
Source Institutions
-
My Science Box
Add to listGo to activity
In this forensics activity, learners solve a mystery using “DNA” taken from the scene of the crime. This activity describes how to collect a “DNA sample” (learner-invented DNA sequence on a roll of paper) from the culprit and from each learner in the group, then run the DNA on a “gel” that covers the floor of the classroom, a hallway, or gymnasium. The crime-scene investigation aspect can become as elaborate as you wish by including additional “clues” such as fingerprints, a ransom note written in a specific type of ink, cloth fibers, eyewitness accounts and more.
- 5 to 10 minutes
- 1 to 7 days
- $1 - $5 per student
- Ages 11 - 18
- Activity, Experiment/Lab Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan, Simulation
- English
Quick Guide
Materials List (per student)
- Scissors
- Adding machine tape or roll of paper (1 meter per person)
- Meter sticks (or rulers)
- (Optional) Masking tape or blue painters tape to mark off a gel, loading wells, and lanes on the floor of the classroom, gym or hallway
Subjects
- Life Sciences
- Heredity and Genetics
- Patterns of Heredity
- DNA Structure and Function
- Genetic Engineering
- Heredity and Genetics
- The Nature of Science
- The Scientific Process
- Conducting Investigations
- Gathering Data
- Formulating Explanations
- Communicating Results
- Science as a Career
- The Scientific Process
Informal Categories
- Crime Science
Audience
To use this activity, learners need to:
- see
- read
- be mobile
- touch
Learning styles supported:
- Involves hands-on or lab activities
Other
Components that are part of this resource:
Includes alignment to state and/or national standards
Includes assesments for student learning
This resource is part of:
Access Rights:
- Free access
By:
- Salter, Irene
Rights:
- Creative Commons, Irene Salter,
Funding Source:
- Rose Foundation
