DNA Extraction and Collection
This lab activity allows students to easily extract and observe deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) found in plant cells. They separate and spool the DNA so they can observe some of DNA’s physical properties. Students gain an appreciation and firsthand experience of the DNA structure. This lab activity comes with everything needed to perform the lab except the fruit and can be completed in one class period.
Details at a Glance
- 1-2 Days | 1-2 ~50 minute class periods
- 1 Activity
- Accommodates 1 class, with 8 groups of 4 students
- Consumables service 32 students
- Meets our criteria for supporting literacy
- Includes digital resources
Scientific Concepts
•Plant cells are surrounded by the cell wall, a tough cellulose outer barrier.
•All cells have a flexible barrier, the cell membrane, that encases all components of the cell (except the cell wall.)
•The nucleus of a cell, one of a cell’s organelles, contains the DNA and is encased by a separate flexible nuclear membrane.
•DNA is soluble in water, but not in ethanol.
Key Vocabulary: cell membrane, cell wall, deoxyribose nucleic acid (DNA), lysate,
lysis, nuclear membrane
Guides & Student Sheets
Our kits and modules provide you with everything you need so you can open, review, and teach the material confidently the next day.
- Full downloadable Teacher Guide with background information, detailed instruction, example data and answers
- Downloadable Student Sheets with age appropriate background information, full procedure(s), and analysis questions
- All materials necessary to carry out the investigation
- Safety Data Sheets
Kit Components
- 3 Cell Lysis Solution, Bottles
- 3 DNA Precipitation Solution, Bottles
- 8 Lab-Aids A/B Trays
- 8 Funnels
- 8 Plastic test tubes
- 8 Plastic droppers
- 8 Plastic sleeves
- 8 Poly bags (heavy duty)
- 8 Graduated cups
- 1 Cheesecloth squares, pkg of 8
- 1 Wooden splints, pkg of 12
- 32 Student Guides
- 1 Teacher’s Guide
- 1 Safety Data Sheet (SDS) packet
- Not included and needed for instruction: Fresh or frozen strawberries, kiwi, or banana.