DNA Testing Teacher Resources

Students demonstrate the genetic principles of Heredity. They discover that each species has a unique Genetic fingerprint and that people can use "Genetic fingerprints" to solve a number of problems. They discuss examples of uses of DNA...

In a world of DNA testing popularity, understanding how to solve basic genetic problems allows scholars to better understand and interpret test results. They work through many different types of genetic problems using statistics, Punnett...

Students investigate the principles of gel electrophoresis and DNA testing. They watch and discuss a PowerPoint presentation, and solve a DNA mystery using the information they learned from the presentation.

Students interpret different DNA fingerprints, then do a jigsaw activity to explore other uses of DNA forensics. They listen to a radio program about using DNA as evidence and discuss the limitations of and problems with DNA testing.

Forensic scientists depend on their observation skills to analyze evidence down to the molecular level. Middle and high schoolers practice making observations and predictions with a series of crime scene activities, which includes a...

Learners explore issues surrounding death penalty debate and participate in a values-clarification activity to help them form their opinions on this topic. They create a talk show to discuss issues involved with DNA testing and the death...

Students study DNA fingerprinting and how it is used in criminal investigations.  In this DNA instructional activity students interpret DNA fingerprints, explore the uses for fingerprinting and see the limitations of DNA testing. 

Young scholars investigate the Polymerase Chain Reaction technique that is used to create larger amounts of a gene. They watch and discuss a PowerPoint presentation, explore a website, and write a report listing the materials needed to...

If you knew that you were likely to develop Alzheimer's disease in your future, how would it affect your life in the meantime? This and other similar thought-provoking questions are discussed in a lesson plan about the availability of...

Students discuss methods used by forensic scientists and the basics of DNA and how it can be used to identify an individual after reading an article from The New York Times.

Students role-play a scenario in which a car crash patient is inadvertently given the wrong blood type during a transfusion. They perform blood typing and explore the genetics behind ABO and RH blood types using simulated blood.

In this forensic science worksheet, students analyze the characteristics and uses of DNA to complete 26 short answer questions.

In this science and serendipity worksheet, students read about how Fleming discovered Penicillin by accident when observing bacteria that didn't grow where mold existed. Students answer questions about scientific discoveries.

Students research a subject about biotechnology and do a project or a writing assignment on it. They can pick from a possible eighteen different projects and five different writing projects.

Students apply the principles of ethical decision making to actual cases. They appreciate that there is usually no one "right" decision. Students compare their conclusions to those of individuals who are in the field.

The National Park Service has documented the findings on the Kennewick Man in this lengthy and detailed website. Also included is a Cultural Affiliation Report and Report on the DNA Testing Results.

At DNA from the Beginning, choose from classical genetics, molecules of genetics, genetic organization and control. Each concept is explained through animation, an image gallery, video interviews, biographies and links.

Find out how DNA profilers analyze bits of tissue to identify human remains. From the NOVA: "Lost on Everest" Web site.

A reporter who volunteered to have his DNA mapped was surprised to learn that he had some gene variants linked to diseases. He discusses his reaction to the findings, and the risks and benefits of DNA testing. Aired Feb. 24, 2012 [17:56...

This undated photo provided by the Baltimore County Police Department shows Margaret Fetterolf, of Alexandria, Va., who family members say went missing in 1975. Baltimore County Police said new DNA testing showed Fetterolf was the girl...

This interview with a health policy expert on the use of and future of genetic testing is from a symposium on DNA at the University of California at San Francisco.

Examples of using DNA for forensic purposes is discussed here, as well as uses to unravel historical puzzles, trace the history of a species and answer health problems.

At this site from Access Excellence, you can read a transcript from a lecture at the University of California, San Francisco by a biology professor discussing the use of DNA in criminal identification.

A concise explanation of the use of DNA technologies in forensic identification from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Additional valuable resources are provided.