TeacherTECH Science Series- DNA Analysis 2: Introduction to PCR - Thursday, May 13, 2010, 4:30pm - 6:30pm

High School Teachers are invited to attend an exciting new TeacherTECH workshop series focused on biotech. This workshop series will provide you with the building blocks to confidently introduce standards-based hands on laboratory activities into your lesson plans. These activities may be integrated into your classroom teaching as stand-alone activities or be strung together as a combined series of labs. The series will build on to more advanced topics both in content and equipment requirements. 

Thursday, May 13, 2010                   4:30pm - 6:30pm 

San Diego Supercomputer Center, Auditorium, UCSD

The instructor will also show you materials modifications to fit your class and budget.

Workshop Description:  

This hands-on workshop teaches the basics of DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and gel electrophoresis. Learn how trace amounts of DNA are used to identify genetic ancestry, identify inherited variations in your own genotype at the PV92 locus, or test common grocery store food products for the presence of GM foods. AP Bio Lab 8                           

Workshop Activities:

DNA profiling determines the exact genotype of a DNA sample, distinguishing one human being from another by identifying each person's unique DNA "bar code." This powerful tool aids investigations of crime scenes, missing persons, mass disasters, immigration disputes, and paternity. Crime scenes often contain tiny biological specimens (such as blood, semen, hairs, saliva, bones, pieces of skin) from which DNA can be extracted. The reason DNA profiling is so useful for forensic scientists is that a definitive DNA profile can be obtained from a minute biological sample using the power of DNA amplification afforded by polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

The Crime Scene Investigator PCR Basics kit is an introductory PCR kit that allows students to simulate DNA profiling as it is commonly used in forensic laboratories. The laboratory activity is designed to introduce the concepts of PCR, which is widely used in forensics, diagnostics, and archaeological procedures. 

Upcoming Biotech Workshops:

Tuesday, May 25, 2010  - Proteins in Action 2

In this hands-on workshop we will generate protein profiles from distant and closely related species of fish using gel electrophoresis. Test the hypothesis that protein profiles are indicators of evolutionary relatedness and construct cladograms from your own gel results: DNA> RNA>Protein>Trait.

Tuesday, June 8, 2010 - Proteins in Action 3: NEW LAB AP Bio lab 2

Need Energy?  Reveal the power of enzyme kinetics by illustrating the theory through a real world application to biofuels.  Through guided inquiry activities your students will determine how temperature, pH, the concentration of substrate and the concentration of enzyme will effect an enzymatic reaction.  Throughout the world, biofuels are commonly used to power vehicles, heat homes, and provide fuel for cooking.  Can biofuels solve global warming?  Let your students decide if this is possible!

Please join us for an exciting and informative session of hands-on learning presented by Essy Levy, Curriculum and Training Specialist, Bio-Rad Laboratories. 

Registration is free. Refreshments will be served.

Space is limited. Please contact Ange Mason at 858-534-5064 or  amason@ucsd.edu to reserve your space.


CLICK HERE for additional information on other TeacherTECH programs.