Genetics Workshop!

​On January 31st, we hosted our Genetics Workshop at the San Diego Public Library. Our participants learned about genetic material (DNA), the processes of Transcription and Translation, genes, and traits. After highlighting two acclaimed women who have undoubtedly contributed to the field of Genetic studies, Barbara McClintock and Rosalind Franklin, our participants partook in 4 different activities.

During our first activity, participants created DNA bracelets. This activity reinforced the topic of base pairs, complementary nucleotides within a DNA strand. They were given two pieces of string, representing two strands of DNA, and were to tie both of them together at one end. Each participant received a paper displaying a gene’s nucleotide sequence, represented by colors, and used colored beads to replicate the sequence onto one strand of the bracelet. Participants then applied their knowledge of base pairing to form the other side of the bracelet with colored beads. 

Our second activity was Strawberry DNA Extraction. Participants were individually given one strawberry inside a plastic bag, two plastic cups(one with a solution of soap, water, and salt, and one empty), a coffee filter, and a paper that included the instructions. This activity spurred up much excitement and anticipation from the participants! Although this activity was a bit messy from the girls crushing strawberries to allow their cells to break open and release their DNA, it was ultimately a huge success with them isolating the DNA and being able to pick up the strawberry’s DNA with a spoon! One participant energetically said, “It’s easier to grab strawberry DNA than I thought!”

Next, our third activity was tasting PTC Paper. Following a lesson about traits that included the topics of genotypes and phenotypes, recessive and dominant alleles, and punnet squares, participants were given a PTC paper to test their own traits! With a drastic range of having the ability to taste the bitterness of the paper and not, the girls got to compare and discuss how traits work. They all received gummy worms to enjoy and cleanse their taste buds if the PTC Paper taste was too strong!

Finally, but certainly not least, our last activity was our Alien Genetics Activity. Participants were to apply what they learned about genes to create a custom Alien baby. This taught them how to determine genotypes and phenotypes and challenged all their knowledge from the entire workshop. While determining what genotype an alien would receive, a participant said, “It’s interesting how the dominant trait takes over the recessive trait!” Participants created various unique aliens that ranged from having one to two eyes, and two to four arms! 

Overall, our participants had a lot of fun exploring genetics! Our next workshop is on Electricity and Power on February 21, hosted at Mission Valley Library. Hope to see you all there!