An Interactive Protocol for In-Classroom DNA Extraction

Abstract

Using commonly available materials, this tool allows students to extract DNA, exploring DNA chemistry and the principles of experimental design and execution. We take a “Choose Your Own Adventure” approach encouraging students to explore the protocol and vary individual steps. Students learn the science behind each step of extraction, how that science can allow us to identify and understand certain aspects of the structure of DNA, and how modifying experimental steps can change the observed results. The lesson is intended for an undergraduate setting, but we include adaptations to allow delivery of this lesson to a variety of ages from preschool through adult science events. The manuscript is in English, but we have included supporting materials in Anishinaabemowin, French, Spanish, Urdu, Arabic, Japanese, Mandarin, Hindi, Twi, and English, so that more learners can access these materials in their first language. We have included a supplemental figure showing the simplified structure of DNA using a color scheme that is effective with those with typical sight and colorblindness. We have also linked a video demonstration of the extraction that is available in both French and English and with closed captioning. Inclusion of materials in multiple languages and formats makes the material more user-friendly, allowing its direct inclusion in non-English speaking classrooms, and allows learners to understand that science is not limited to the “universal” scientific language and can be conducted in any language of choice. Primary Image: This image highlights the basic steps of the extraction process, showing the experimental setup, the DNA precipitation, the product and variation observed amongst different group members.