Thanksgiving Science CSI Activity | DNA Fingerprinting Lab

Description

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Who stole Mr. Gobbles, the famous Thanksgiving parade turkey? Students will extract DNA from strawberries to learn about DNA extraction. Then, they will run paper “DNA” evidence through a simulated gel electrophoresis chamber to make a DNA fingerprint. Your students will love this Thanksgiving-themed, engaging FUN FORENSICS activity! Feathered Fiasco is a comprehensive classroom resource designed to introduce middle school and high school students to the exciting world of forensic science and DNA analysis. This activity aligns with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and is perfect for integrating STEM into your Thanksgiving-themed lessons.

The Story:

In the peaceful town of Gobbler’s Grove, the beloved turkey Mr. Gobbles, famous for his extraordinary feathers, was the pride of the annual Thanksgiving parade. But this year, just before the festivities, Mr. Gobbles disappeared!

Activity 1: DNA Extraction of a Strawberry:

Students will use a simple technique with easy-to-find materials to extract DNA from fresh strawberries.

Activity 2: Gel Electrophoresis Simulation:

In this part of the activity, students will be given five paper strands that represent DNA. The first strand is from the victim’s (Mr. Gobbles) feathers. The other four strands were collected from the suspects. Their job is to color each strand of DNA and then cut the strands with scissors at the same location a restriction enzyme would make a cut. They will arrange the fragments in order of size, from smallest to largest on an image representing an electrophoresis gel. Then they will compare the cut pieces of DNA from Mr. Gobbles’ feathers to the pieces from the suspects to see if they can find a match.

*Activities 1 and 2 and be used separately as stand-alone activities or together for an extended activity.

What’s Included in this Thanksgiving Science Gel Electrophoresis Simulation:

• Three Informational Reading Passages: Detailed and student-friendly texts that provide background knowledge on DNA, DNA fingerprinting, and gel electrophoresis.
• Mock Crime Scene Scenario: A fun and intriguing Thanksgiving mystery involving the beloved turkey Mr. Gobbles, complete with suspect profiles and a narrative to engage students.
• Hands-On DNA Extraction: Step-by-step instructions for students to conduct their own DNA extraction from strawberries, illustrating the real techniques used in labs.
• DNA Fingerprinting Simulation: A paper-based simulation activity where students cut and arrange DNA strands to solve the crime using the principles of gel electrophoresis.
• Comprehensive Teacher’s Instructions: Includes setup instructions, prep, and an answer key.
• Assessment Tools: Follow-up questions to assess students’ understanding of the material.
• Creative Writing Prompt: An opportunity for students to write their own ending to the mystery, fostering creative thinking and writing skills.
• Printable Materials: All necessary printable resources, including DNA strands for the simulation.

Educational Value:

• Promotes Critical Thinking: Students analyze evidence and deduce the culprit, developing important critical thinking skills.
• Real-World Science Application: Demonstrates the practical application of genetics and biotechnology in solving crimes.
• Interactive Learning: Encourages active participation and hands-on experience with scientific concepts.
• Cross-Disciplinary: Incorporates elements of biology, technology, and language arts.

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