Lifelab’s purpose-built genetics teaching laboratory contains all of the specialist equipment required to give your students a real, hands-on experience of DNA techniques including micropipetting, restriction digests and gel electrophoresis. We offer a range of workshops suitable for KS3 to post-16 on a variety of topics connected with DNA and genetics.
A Question of Taste (PCR)
This popular full-day workshop for post-16 students covers DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction enzymes and gives students hands-on experience of techniques including micropipetting and gel electrophoresis in our purpose-built genetics teaching laboratory.
Students explore their ability to taste the bitter chemical phenylthiocarbamide (PTC) by finding out their taster phenotype and then, using the DNA techniques outlined above, discovering their individual genotype for PTC tasting.
The content of the workshop is fully linked to A-level Biology and BTEC Applied Science specifications and additional teaching activities ensure that the theory behind the practical work is fully explained to students.
A Question of Taste gives students a hands-on introduction to DNA and genetics and as such is ideal for year 12 students starting A2 Biology courses this term.
Bacterial Evolution
This half-day workshop for KS4 and post-16 students considers the DNA evidence for current evolution in bacteria and the consequences for human health.
Students investigate DNA samples from outbreaks of Streptococcus pyogenes and use restriction enzyme digests and gel electrophoresis to identify whether the bacteria in question are likely to cause mild symptoms such impetigo or more serious medical problems such as necrotising fasciitis.
Bacterial Evolution gives students hands-on experience of current DNA techniques and uses additional teaching activities to reinforce learning about DNA, restriction enzymes and evolution and natural selection.
All of our DNA masterclasses cost £140 for a whole class (24 students) – half class bookings are also available.