Mathematics/Physics
DNA Extraction with Kitchen Chemistry
Donna M. Bronson | John B. Drake |
2700 S. King Drive | |
Chicago IL 60616 | |
(773) 534-9130 |
Objective(s):
Students will learn that you can extract DNA from various foods that are found in your refrigerator. This lesson is designed for middle school grades.
Materials Needed:
Dry split peas, Blender (optional), Dish detergent, Toothpicks, Meat tenderizer, Small Glass Containers, Alcohol, Onions, Yeast, Brocolli, Raw chicken liver, Strainer
Strategy:
Students will follow these procedures for DNA Extraction:
Step 1.
Step 2.
Step 3.
Performance Assessment:
Now that you have extracted DNA from peas, think about each step of the procedure and why it works.
How did each of the ingredients in the demonstration help extract DNA from the other parts of the cell?
What part of cells would be most affected by soap?
What is it in meat tenderizer that breaks down meat?
Alcohol and salt: Why does only the DNA, and not the other parts of the cell, rise to the top after addition of alcohol?
References:
DNA Extraction with Kitchen Chemistry. The Natural History of Genes. University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT