and life sciences communities in Maryland and the
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07-08 Laboratory Activities
Activity
Summary
A laboratory activity where students explore clean renewable energy sources and the connection between laboratory science and the environment. The investigation focuses on an acid-base titration, one of the first steps in the production of biodiesel. Students will be challenged to explore the economical impact of using biodiesel.
Level: Intermediate
Time: 45 minutes
A DNA restriction analysis laboratory activity; students put their laboratory skills to work for the local crime lab investigating a mystery using simulated DNA profiling.
Level: Intermediate
Time: 45 minutes
An environmental biotechnology laboratory where students explore genetic engineering and the connection between laboratory science and environmental biotechnology. Students will use RT-PCR, PCR, restriction enzyme digests, and gel electrophoresis to identify if different fungal cankers from chestnut trees have been infected by a hypovirus and if that hypovirus is wild type or a genetically modified form. This activity requires one overnight incubation.
Level: Intermediate or Advanced
Time: 120 minutes (Intermediate) or 180 minutes (Advanced)
Download the Chestnut Tree Lab Presentation
Students explore the connection between laboratory science and marketing. Using the Lowry Assay, students will determine which company’s sports drink actually has the highest concentration of protein.
Level: Intermediate
Time: 45 minutes
Students explore enzymes and the connection of laboratory science and medical diseases through an investigation into lactose intolerance and its symptoms. Using the lactase enzyme to break down lactose in milk samples students will investigate the effects of pH and temperature on enzyme activity.
Level: Intermediate
Time: 45 minutes
Students will extract and visualize DNA from different types of tissue while using the scientific method.
Level: Basic
Time: 45 minutes
An investigation into the molecular basis of sickle cell disease. Students use gel electrophoresis to distinguish between normal and sickle cell hemoglobin protein.
Level: Basic
Time: 45 minutes
Students examine the effects of an oil spill on the environment and compare ways to clean up water contaminated with oil using detergent and oil eating microbes.
Level: Basic
Time: 45 minutes
Students investigate basic principles of genetic engineering by transforming E. coli cells with plasmids containing fluoresence and ampicillin resistance genes. This activity requires an overnight incubation to view results.
Level: Advanced
Time: 45 or 90 minutes
Students work as forensic scientists and use molecular techniques to analyze DNA using PCR and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Level: Intermediate or Advanced
Time: 45 minutes (Intermediate) or 180 minutes (Advanced)