Students are held responsible for demonstrating a deep understanding of DNA identification techniques on state tests. The materials available to learn about gel electrophoresis are merely poor written examples on worksheets. Students deserve to experience a real gel electrophoresis in action!
I teach approximately 120 freshmen and sophomore students biology and ecology in a large public high school in NYC.
More often than not, students come from less than desirable circumstances such as unstable family life, drug abuse, extreme poverty and gang-infested neighborhoods. School is often their last hope. Many students also have special needs, presenting them with even more severe challenges. Even in light of these circumstances, students still come to school ready to learn and succeed. It is my absolute obligation to see that these students have more than ample opportunity to engage and succeed in school so that they may have a brighter future.
My Project
Gel electrophoresis is a technique that allows scientists and investigators compare DNA samples. It is often used for familial identification, identifying criminals and other situations that require accurate identification. Our classroom needs gel electrophoresis chambers and materials required to actually run a gel with real DNA so students can have a hands-on and practical experience in their science class. As students are also in the Law Enforcement Academy at our school, gel electrophoresis is a perfect bridge between science and law enforcement which gives them a sense of community identity and relevant content knowledge. With a genuine understanding of the material, student will be prepared to succeed once they graduate and begin their college careers.
It is such a tragedy when students do not receive the quality instruction they deserve because of a lack of resources.
Please support my students and their education by giving them the resources they need to have an engaging and practical experience with gel electrophoresis so that they will succeed in school and be inspired and excited by their science class.
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