How do we know if Hematodinium is the Culprit?
Explanation
In this section of the lesson, the students will display their results to the class. The class will then agree or disagree if Hematodinium is the culprit using their data from the lab. The teacher will explain that there are additional methods such as qualitative PCR that provide quantitative, conclusive data for DNA fingerprinting.
Objectives
Students will be able to analyze their gel in order to determine if Hematodinium DNA is present in crab hemolymph. Students will also be able to investigate various biotech techniques available to scientists in order to select the best methods for positively identifying a suspect.
Lesson Materials
1. Images of gels from the Exploration.
Procedures
- Students will post images of their gels for the class to see.
- Students will collectively agree whether or not Hematodinium is the culprit and will defend their answers using scientific data.
- The teacher will discuss whether the data collected was qualitative or quantitative.
- The teacher will discuss alternative biotech methods for positively identifying a suspect, such as end point PCR and quantitative PCR.
- Students will evaluate which method they think is the most useful.
References
MdBio Case of the Broken Beaker, http://www.mdbiofoundation.org/?dt_portfolio=case-of-the-broken-beaker
Maryland State Standards
News and Blogs
Chesapeake Quarterly Magazine
Complicated Contaminants: Finding PFAS in the Chesapeake Bay
