How Gel Electrophoresis Sorts DNA
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"How Gel Electrophoresis Sorts DNA" is written for 7th Grade (Ages 12-13). A 6th grader who is already steady on living things can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.
2 pages in this set
7th grade science worksheet: read how gel electrophoresis sorts DNA by size, then estimate band sizes using a DNA ladder. Answer key included. Part of our heredity living things collection.
How do I use this worksheet?
Start with the gene to protein sheet and the pedigree, then crosses. Use the DNA band sheets as application cases once students understand how gel electrophoresis sorts DNA.
What students will practice
- Students will explain how gel electrophoresis sorts DNA pieces by length.
- Students will label the wells, gel, electrodes, DNA ladder and DNA bands.
- Students will use the ladder to estimate band sizes and order the lanes.
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FAQ
How do I use this heredity worksheet?
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Start with the gene to protein sheet and the pedigree, then crosses. Use the DNA band sheets as application cases once students understand how gel electrophoresis sorts DNA.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Read how gel electrophoresis sorts DNA by size, then estimate band sizes using a DNA ladder. The directions on the page read: Read the text. Answer each question in full sentences. An answer key is included.
Can I use this heredity worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade living things, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.
What is the difference between a gene and a chromosome?
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A gene is one stretch of DNA that holds the instructions for one protein. A chromosome is a long molecule of DNA that can hold hundreds or thousands of genes.
What is a DNA band?
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A band is a group of DNA pieces of the same length on a gel. Samples with matching bands carry matching pieces of DNA.
How do mutations change a protein?
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A substitution, insertion or deletion changes the letters of mRNA, which a cell reads three at a time. The sheet shows when the protein changes and when it does not.
What is incomplete dominance?
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A mixed offspring is a blend between the parents, such as pink snapdragons from red and white parents.
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Worksheet Details
| Grade | 7th Grade |
| Subject | Science |
| Topic | Living Things |
| Pages | 2 pages |
| Difficulty | Medium |
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