Towson University Center for STEM Excellence

Bioscience Education and Outreach Program

SciTech Student Learning Laboratory

In this lab, students will explore the role and function of DNA in living organisms. Following an introduction to DNA, students will have an opportunity to extract DNA from several different samples. They will be challenged to develop a testable hypothesis about whether a particular sample will or will not contain DNA. They will then conduct an experiment to test their hypothesis and interpret their results. Students will conclude their experience by creating a DNA necklace using their own DNA. The following are available for printing and download:

• Middle School State Curriculum standards covered and


• High School Core Learning Goals covered.