Jumping Genes! PV92 Insertion (5.5 hours)

Alu insertion polymorphism is one of the more widely studied DNA polymorphisms, representing approximately 5% of the human genome. In this lab-based experience, students will be exposed to various laboratory skills and techniques while examining their own DNA for the presence/absence of an Alu element at a particular chromosome location.* This experience includes lunch (at an additional $11.25/person.)

 *Students’ samples will not be used outside of the educational context of this activity and a signed parental release form is required for participation. Download the activity permission form.

Investigating the Genetics of Cancer (5 hours)

In this lab-based experience, students will examine the genetic roots of cancer, compare hereditary and non-hereditary cancers,and use the HNPCC kit to trace a cancer-related mutation through a family.  Students will use a family medical history to create a pedigree and select likely candidates for genetic testing. Using gel electrophoresis, students will identify family members carrying the cancer‐linked mutation. Throughout the day, students will discuss ethical challenges related to genetic testing. This experience includes lunch (at an additional $11.25/person) and either a talk from a HudsonAlpha scientist or a tour.

Sequencing and Beyond (5 hours)

Using HudsonAlpha-developed Disorder Detectives® and Making Sense of Uncertainty™, students will dive into the phenomena of next generation science and the diagnostic tools involved in genomic analysis. In this hands-on experience students will utilize real data to make a genomic diagnosis while learning more about the technology, career awareness, and the relatively new science of genomic sequencing. * This experience includes lunch (at an additional $11.25/person.)

Genetically Modified Snacks? (5 hours)

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are the subject of wide ranging debates in the US and in other countries. In this experience, students will investigate genetic modifications on plants and examine common snack items for the presence of genetically modified corn or soybean.  Students will extract DNA from snack foods, use PCR to amplify target regions, and analyze their results with gel electrophoresis. Students will also explore the ethical challenges related to genetic modification. This experience includes lunch (at an additional $11.25/person). 

Genes & ConSEQUENCES (5 hours)

Students will dive into the Central Dogma in this computer based activity. Students will gain experience with DNA sequencing and look at how changes in key regions of DNA can cause disease. Using one of 15 case studies, students will practice DNA base pairing, transcription and translation. Students will create protein-folding models and discuss how changes in amino acid sequence may impact protein function. This experience includes lunch (at an additional $11.25/person), and a tour to discuss how sequencing data is used in modern genomic research.

The following experiences can be combined – limit 2 

All in the Family – Or Is It? (2.5 hours)

In this lab-based experience, students will examine the role of inherited mutations and environmental factors using the HNPCC kit. In the lab, students will use a family medical history to create a pedigree and select likely candidates for genetic testing. Using gel electrophoresis, students will identify family members carrying a cancer-linked mutation. Throughout the day, students will discuss ethical challenges related to genetic testing.

Cytogeneticist for a Day (1.5 hours)

In this experience, students will take on the role of a cytogeneticist, examining patient samples for chromosomal anomalies. Students will learn how karyotypes are produced and work through one of 15 patient case studies, using HudsonAlpha’s Disorder Detectives kit to create a karyotype. Along the way, HudsonAlpha instructors will lead students through discussion about the impact of chromosomal changes.

Extreme Extraction (1.5 hours)

Extracting DNA is a favorite activity for many students and teachers. In this experience, students take DNA extractions to the next level by creating their own extraction solutions using common household items. Students will learn how cell structure impacts the extraction process and discuss why scientists extract DNA.

Genome Cache® (1 hour) Weather dependent

Using the double helix sidewalks of McMillian Park, students investigate nearly 200 genetic points of interest along a human genome walk. The Genome Cache app provides clues to send students on a scavenger hunt through a scale model of the human genome over half a mile long. Students respond to genetic trivia questions to receive the next clue and compare their scores to the statewide leaderboard. Genome Cache is weather dependent and is not  available in winter.

The following experiences can be combined for up to three hours total

Mysterious Mixtures! (3 hours)

In this guided-inquiry, skills-based lab, students will use common lab equipment such as graduated cylinders and pan balances to create solutions. Then, they will investigate acids and bases, test the pH of solutions, and identify a mysterious substance. 

Biotechnology: In Living Color (3 hours)

In this lab-skills-based experience, students will learn to use tools such as micropipettes and gel electrophoresis to separate different-sized molecules. Along the way, they will learn how to cast and load gels, analyze the make-up of different dyes, and connect these technologies to DNA analysis and science careers. 

Exploring Enzymes (1.5 or 3 hours)

In this lab­-based activity, students will investigate enzymes. Students will begin by learning about enzyme specificity using locks and keys and discuss the role of enzymatic reactions during digestion of a fast food meal. In addition, students will evaluate several enzymes by creating their own apple juice, and/or observe enzymatic action in real time as they create cheese. 

Kitchen DNA with a Twist of Inquiry (1.5 hours)

Extracting DNA is a favorite activity for many students and teachers. In this experience, students take DNA extractions to the next level by creating their own extraction solutions using common household items. Students will learn how cell structure impacts the extraction process and discuss why scientists extract DNA.

Genome Cache® (1 hour) –  Weather dependent

Using the double helix sidewalks of McMillian Park, students investigate nearly 200 genetic points of interest along a human genome walk. The Genome Cache app provides clues to send students on a scavenger hunt through a scale model of the human genome over half a mile long. Students respond to genetic trivia questions to receive the next clue and can compare their scores to the statewide leaderboard. Genome Cache is weather dependent and is not available in winter.