Biotech Explorers: Unraveling Mysteries and Crafting DNA for 6th-9th

Biotech Explorers: Unraveling Mysteries and Crafting DNA in a Project-Based CSI Adventure

Join us at Gale Ranch Middle School for an exciting class that will take you on a thrilling journey into the world of biotechnology. In this hands-on experience, you’ll become a forensic scientist and learn how to unravel mysteries using DNA analysis.

This fun, interactive, project-oriented course is designed to engage you in a truly fascinating area of science, biotechnology. You will explore biotechnology while conducting three different labs. This class integrates multiple life science and NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards) standards. DNA fingerprinting: DNA evidence assists in criminal, missing persons, mass disaster, and paternity cases. It can be used to identify a perpetrator or exonerate the innocent. In this lab, you will use real DNA as evidence. You will cut the DNA and separate it using DNA electrophoresis. Then play the role of crime scene investigator and figure out for themselves “Who done it? You will be introduced to molecular biology with your own DNA. Employing the same real-world laboratory procedure used to extract DNA from many different organisms for a variety of biotechnology research applications. You will extract DNA from your cheek cells and see the normally invisible material. Which you will capture in a necklace so you can keep your DNA forever. Additionally, you will make bacteria glow in the dark while learning about genetic engineering. You will transfer plasmid from jellyfish to bacteria. This is the same way biologists create “designer proteins”.

This event is perfect for anyone with a curious mind and a passion for science. Whether you’re a budding scientist or just looking for a fun and educational experience, this is the event for you. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to become a biotech explorer!

Program Details:

• Class Time: 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. with a break for snack
• Class Dates: Monday (6/17/2024) through Friday (6/21/2024) – note no class on Wednesday (6/19/2024)
• Location: Gale Ranch Middle School
• Grades: Incoming 6th – 9th grade students
• Instructor: Tracy Gilcrest, Monte Vista HS Forensic Science Teacher