10.1 DNA…It’s What’s for Dinner
This Food for America lesson (Unit 10: Agricultural Technology, “DNA… It’s What’s for Dinner!”) teaches upper elementary students what DNA is and connects it to biotechnology in agriculture. Students hear a story about a corn character named Cob learning about DNA, then conduct a hands-on lab to isolate DNA from strawberries using common household supplies.
At a glance
- Learning objectives
-
- Define DNA.
- Isolate DNA from strawberries.
- Time required
- 50 minutes
- Grade level
- Upper elementary
- Materials
-
- Writing surface
- Copies of Activity Sheet 30:1 and Activity Sheet 30:2
- General lab supplies as outlined in Activity Sheet 30:2
- Extra mild shampoo
- Salt
- Rubbing alcohol
- Measuring cups
- Blender
- Clear plastic cups
- Coffee filters
- Frozen or fresh strawberries
- Ice
- Water
- Wooden stick
- Key Term(s)
- DNA, Biotechnology