Curriculum Connection > Science 9

• Explain the process of cell division

What is this activity about?
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.

How to use the activity in the classroom

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

• Student worksheet

Tips and Tricks
Students can work in pairs or a group of three. You only need 1/2 kiwi per extraction. One good alternative is frozen strawberries. Onion is also possible but the smell isn’t as nice.

Lab grade ethanol works better than rubbing alcohol from the drugstore.
Rubbing alcohol works OK if it’s VERY COLD. Also, the DNA/alcohol step may need to sit for at least 5 minutes to encourage precipitation.

We have found that most classes work best if you let the students follow the instructions as you circulate to help where needed. Afterwards, you can review the steps of the protocol, what was the purpose of each, what would happen if you changed certain parts.