Biotech for Middle Schoolers
Empower Young Scientists with MiniOne
Explore the exciting world of biotechnology and inspire the next generation of innovators. These resources and week-by-week syllabus are designed to introduce complex concepts in an accessible and engaging way for students in grades 6 – 8.
This scope and sequence was developed in collaboration with two middle school science programs in northern and southern California! Want to learn more? Contact us today.
Why Bring Biotech to Middle School?
By introducing middle school students to biotech, we equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to future scientific advancements. This foundational understanding fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation, preparing students both for high school and university courses, but also diverse career opportunities in science and technology.
Free Biotechnology Resources
Amoeba Sisters
Videos, comics, gifs, handouts, etc. on lots of topics, maney usable as-is without much adapting needed. Check out their fantastic Resource List, but be sure to read the terms of use.
LabXchange
Virtual lab simulations, articles, graphics, interactives, videos, and more. Create custom classes, units, or lessons which can be done with or without student logins. Explore their general biotechnology and DNA applications pathway, but be aware lessons may require some work adapting to middle school levels. Some time and/or training should be set aside to learn how to use the site.
Biotechnology Introduction Course Syllabus
Week 1 – Intro to Biotech
What is biotechnology?
Tools and equipment
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- Online scavenger hunt example
- LabXchange video- How To: Use Laboratory Glassware
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Safe lab practices
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- Lab safety manual
- Lab safety powerpoint
- Lab safety video
- Lab safety music video
- Amoeba Sisters – basic lab safety video and Safety Video Recap Handout
- LabXchange – How to: Put on Personal Protective Equipment, Lab Bench Safety
- Hand washing and Aseptic Technique
Hands-on lab: Handwashing
Week 2 – Basic skills; Micropipetting
Introduction to parts of the micropipette and proper usage
Flowgramming
Hands-on Labs
Weeks 3 and 4 – DNA
DNA structure and properties
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- DNA structure PowerPoint
- DNA Structure (Live Action Role Play activity)
- DNA structure and replication webquest and webquest key
- DNA paper model activity (sample – there are lots of them out there)
- Amoeba Sisters – DNA Replication Video, Video Recap Handout
- LabXchange – The Structure of DNA (interactive)
Biotech applications using DNA (engineering, cloning, medicines, forensics, CRISPR, sequencing, etc.)
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- Resources links on DNA technology applications on Khan Academy
- Environmental clean up article
- Amoeba Sisters – Genetic Engineering Video
- LabXchange – Intro to genetic engineering pathway, DNA Fingerprinting (simulation)
Hands-on Lab: DNA Extraction MiniLab
Week 5 – Electrophoresis
Intro to electrophoresis
Tools, equipment, and process of running a gel
- Amoeba Sisters – Gel Electrophoresis video
- LabXchange – How To: Agarose Gel Electrophoresis (video), Separating DNA with Gel Electrophoresis (interactive), Gel Electrophoresis (simulation),
Hands-on Lab: Candy Color Electrophoresis MiniLab
Week 6 – Calculations and Dilutions
Basics of lab math – metrics and scales of ten
- Scaling from 2L – What is the best container to hold different measurements?
- Interactive virtual scaling with 62 orders of magnitude
- Scales of the Universe Video – 10 min. video with powers of 10 big to small
- LabXchange – Scales and the Powers of Ten Interactive , SI Base Units of Measurement
Concentrations and dilutions
- Dilutions powerpoint
- LabXchange – Dilution – LabXchange (simulation), How to Make a Solution (interactive), How To: Make Stock Solutions and Serial Dilutions – LabXchange (video)
Hands-on Lab: Dilution Solution MiniLab
Week 7 – Restriction Enzymes and digests
Restriction Enzymes
- Amgen lab 2 Powerpoint – (*intro slides on plasmids and restriction enzymes)
- LabXchange – Restriction Enzymes (text), How Do Restriction Enzymes Cut Plasmids? (interactive), How To: Restriction Enzyme Digest (video), Restriction Enzyme Digest (simulation)
- Restriction Digest paper/pencil activity
Hands-on Lab: Restriction Digest Basics MiniLab
Week 8 – Applications of Restriction Digests and Electrophoresis
- LabXchange – Real World Applications of Gel Electrophoresis (video), Lesson Plan: Wildlife Forensics (teacher guide)
Hands-on Labs: CSI Forensics MiniLab, What’s in the Trunk Elephant Ivory Expedition MiniLab
Week 9 – PCR
Intro to PCR and sample cycle calculations
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- PCR powerpoint
- Alternative PCR powerpoint
- Amoeba Sisters – PCR Video
- LabXchange – Applications of PCR (interactive), PCR Pathway (with animations,interactives and videos), Amplifying Power of PCR (interactive)
- PCR paper/pencil activity
Hands-on Lab: PCR 101 MiniLab
Week 10 – Putting it all together
LabXchange: Using PCR to Amplify the TAS2R38 Gene (simulation)
Hands-on Lab: A Taste of Genetics MiniLab (combines extraction, PCR and electrophoresis)
Key Features of MiniOne Systems
Simplified DNA Electrophoresis
Our equipment streamlines the DNA electrophoresis process, making it accessible and engaging for students.
Engaging, Intuitive PCR
Fast and reliable hands-on PCR DNA amplification experience in the classroom, allowing students to program and monitor their own PCR protocols.
Comprehensive Lab Kits
Our all-in-one lab kits include everything needed for a complete biotechnology education experience– just add water.
