New
New
Year 7

DNA from fruit

I can observe DNA extracted from fruit and identify the main apparatus and steps in the extraction method.

New
New
Year 7

DNA from fruit

I can observe DNA extracted from fruit and identify the main apparatus and steps in the extraction method.

Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. DNA is a chemical substance that can be extracted from the cells of organisms such as fruit.
  2. DNA molecules cannot usually be seen with the unaided eye, but clumps of it can be seen when a lot of it is extracted.
  3. Observing or following an appropriate method to extract DNA from fruit (e.g. kiwi fruit).
  4. Discussion of apparatus and techniques used to filter the tissue and extract the DNA.
  5. Observing and describing the appearance of the DNA after extraction.

Common misconception

DNA is just 'genetic information' and not a substance; not all organisms contain DNA (e.g. plants).

The lesson demonstrates that DNA is a physical, chemical substance that can be extracted from cells, and shows that plants contain DNA.

Keywords

  • Cell - A cell is the smallest living building block of an organism, and it contains genetic material that provides the instructions used to build and control the organism.

  • DNA - Genetic material is made of a chemical substance called DNA, in which the instructions are stored using the genetic code.

  • Mortar and pestle - A mortar and pestle are used to crush and grind up solid samples.

  • Filter - To filter a mixture is to separate out insoluble particles from a liquid. It can be done using a funnel and filter paper.

  • Pipette - A pipette is used to transfer small quantities of liquid.

The DNA extraction practical is best done as a teacher demonstration.
Teacher tip

Content guidance

  • Risk assessment required - equipment

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

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6 Questions

Q1.
DNA is stored in which part of an animal, plant and fungi cell?
cytoplasm
mitochondria
cell membrane
Correct answer: nucleus
Q2.
What type of cell is shown in this image?
An image in a quiz
animal
Correct answer: plant
fungi
bacteria
Q3.
What is the name of the chemical molecule which stores genetic information?
Correct Answer: DNA, Deoxyribonucleic acid
Q4.
Why can't we usually see DNA molecules with our eyes?
An image in a quiz
They are too complex.
Correct answer: They are too small.
They are too tightly packaged.
DNA is transparent
Q5.
Which of these words describes the equipment that is used in practical science investigations?
utensils
tools
Correct answer: apparatus
instruments
Q6.
What is this piece of apparatus called?
An image in a quiz
measuring tube
measuring cylinder
Correct answer: test tube
glass vial

6 Questions

Q1.
What is the name of this chemical molecule?
An image in a quiz
chromosome
gene
genetic code
Correct answer: DNA
Q2.
Match the step from the DNA extraction method to its role.
Correct Answer:crushing the fruit,releases cells from the tissue

releases cells from the tissue

Correct Answer:filtering the crushed fruit,removes large pieces such as seeds

removes large pieces such as seeds

Correct Answer:using a spatula,to add a small amount of salt

to add a small amount of salt

Q3.
Name this piece of apparatus.
An image in a quiz
Correct Answer: mortar and pestle, mortar pestle, pestle mortar, pestle and mortar
Q4.
Match the chemical name to its job in the DNA extraction investigation.
Correct Answer:salt,unwinds the DNA

unwinds the DNA

Correct Answer:detergent,breaks down cell membranes

breaks down cell membranes

Correct Answer:alcohol,DNA floats in it and forms clumps

DNA floats in it and forms clumps

Q5.
Why can DNA from fruit be seen after using the extraction method?
The DNA has gotten bigger.
Correct answer: There is a lot of DNA clumped together.
The DNA has been stained.
More DNA has been made.
Q6.
Name the piece of apparatus used for transferring small volumes of liquids.
test tube
Correct answer: pipette
beaker
measuring cylinder

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