DNA Extraction

DNA Extraction

Contributed by: Genome BC

Type: Activity

Resource overview:

In this hands-on activity, students will extract DNA from fruit. Students will learn where DNA is found, how it is extracted, and what it looks like.

• This activity should be used after cells and DNA have been discussed. Students need background knowledge on where DNA is stored, its structure, and its role within organisms.
• Before the activity, it may be a good idea to ask students to predict what they think the DNA will look like.
• After the activity, a recap for closure may help students understand what they have seen.

Here are some suggested questions for discussion:

o Did the DNA look as you predicted?
o Why did you need to crush the fruit?
o Which step in the procedure allowed you to see the DNA?

Download lesson:

DNA Extraction Activity (PDF)

DNA Extraction Activity with images (PDF)

Reviewer comments:

Curriculum Match: 

• Grade 9 Life Science (B1 Explain the process of cell division, B2 Relate the process of cell division and emerging reproductive technologies to embryonic development)

 Prep Time: 

• 1/2 hour (gathering materials, photocopying methods)

Teaching & Learning Strategies:

• Discovery Learning (Minimal)
• Experiential Learning (Very Good)

Skill Building:

• Observing
• Interpreting observations
• Application of scientific principles
• Safe and correct laboratory procedures

Strengths & Weaknesses:

• Strengths: fun, easy experiment
• Weaknesses: no tools for evaluation included

Reviewed by: Science World Review Team

Links: 

More from Genome BC

Other resources:

DNA extraction from Catherine Anderson on Vimeo.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported License.