Starter quiz
- DNA is stored in which part of an animal, plant and fungi cell?
- cytoplasm
- mitochondria
- cell membrane
- nucleus ✓
-
What type of cell is shown in this image?- animal
- plant ✓
- fungi
- bacteria
-
- What is the name of the chemical molecule which stores genetic information?
- 'DNA' ✓
Why can't we usually see DNA molecules with our eyes?- They are too complex.
- They are too small. ✓
- They are too tightly packaged.
- DNA is transparent
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- Which of these words describes the equipment that is used in practical science investigations?
- utensils
- tools
- apparatus ✓
- instruments
-
What is this piece of apparatus called?- measuring tube
- measuring cylinder
- test tube ✓
- glass vial
-
Exit quiz
- What is the name of this chemical molecule?
- chromosome
- gene
- genetic code
- DNA ✓
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- Match the step from the DNA extraction method to its role.
- crushing the fruit⇔releases cells from the tissue ✓
- filtering the crushed fruit⇔removes large pieces such as seeds ✓
- using a spatula⇔to add a small amount of salt ✓
Name this piece of apparatus.- 'mortar and pestle' ✓
- Match the chemical name to its job in the DNA extraction investigation.
- salt⇔unwinds the DNA ✓
- detergent⇔breaks down cell membranes ✓
- alcohol⇔DNA floats in it and forms clumps ✓
- Why can DNA from fruit be seen after using the extraction method?
- The DNA has gotten bigger.
- There is a lot of DNA clumped together. ✓
- The DNA has been stained.
- More DNA has been made.
-
- Name the piece of apparatus used for transferring small volumes of liquids.
- test tube
- pipette ✓
- beaker
- measuring cylinder
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Worksheet
Presentation
Video
Lesson Details
Key learning points
- DNA is a chemical substance that can be extracted from the cells of organisms such as fruit.
- DNA molecules cannot usually be seen with the unaided eye, but clumps of it can be seen when a lot of it is extracted.
- Observing or following an appropriate method to extract DNA from fruit (e.g. kiwi fruit).
- Discussion of apparatus and techniques used to filter the tissue and extract the DNA.
- Observing and describing the appearance of the DNA after extraction.
Common misconception
DNA is just 'genetic information' and not a substance; not all organisms contain DNA (e.g. plants).
The lesson demonstrates that DNA is a physical, chemical substance that can be extracted from cells, and shows that plants contain DNA.
Keywords
Cell - A cell is the smallest living building block of an organism, and it contains genetic material that provides the instructions used to build and control the organism.
Dna - Genetic material is made of a chemical substance called DNA, in which the instructions are stored using the genetic code.
Mortar and pestle - A mortar and pestle are used to crush and grind up solid samples.
Filter - To filter a mixture is to separate out insoluble particles from a liquid. It can be done using a funnel and filter paper.
Pipette - A pipette is used to transfer small quantities of liquid.