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Forensic DNA

Students use gel electrophoresis to compare DNA fingerprints

Who is it for: Key stage 4 and post-16
Duration: 90 minutes
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DNA fingerprints are covered in this key-stage-4 schools' workshop.

Discover how forensic scientists analyse DNA found at crime scenes to help them solve crimes.

Students use gel electrophoresis to compare DNA fingerprints from three suspects to a sample found at a crime scene and determine which of the suspects might have committed the crime.

Curriculum links

Key stage 4 and post-16
Biology
  • KS4 Science - Cell Biology, Evolution, inheritage and variation, working scientifically.
  • AS/A Level Biology - Biological molecules, Genetics, Forensics
  • OCR AS & Level biology: PAG 6.2 Electrophoresis of DNA fragments for analysis.
  • Edexcel Level 3 Advanced GCE (A level) Biology A: Core practical 14: Use gel electrophoresis to separate DNA fragments of different lengths.

By the end of the workshops students will have discovered:

DNA fingerprint icon.

How the unique DNA fingerprint of a suspect can be used to link them to the scene of a crime.

Test tube icon

How to carry out key lab techniques using specialist equipment.

Enzyme icon.

How restriction enzymes are used to select the relevant sections of DNA for analysis. (enzyme)

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How electrophoresis can be used to analyse DNA samples.

School trip prices

We allow a ratio of 1 adult to every 5 children for most groups. Additional adults over this ratio will be charged. In the case of SEN groups, we may offer further free adult support on request – please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Visiting from 25 June to end of the Summer term? The government is cutting VAT for organisations like ours over the summer and we’re passing the saving onto schools. This applies to all trips that include a science centre visit  (and excludes workshops only).  If you visit during this period, science centre visits are £6.08, and centre/workshop visits are £11.05. If you have already booked during this period, we will be in touch about refunds.

Bookings are now open for the new academic year, and our prices have been reviewed. If  you’d like to book for September onwards, please get in touch for a quote.

Teachers and adult helpers go FREE!
Workshop only
£225
(full class up to 24)
£115
(half class up to 12)
Science Centre add-on
£5.95 per pupil

What other teachers say...

‘Well organised. All students enjoyed this lab. Lauren was excellent. We’d recommend!’

Kirby Stephen Grammar School

‘Fantastic session in the lab. Delivery was perfectly aimed at our group. Really great value for money and excellent organisation. Thanks!’

Gosforth Academy