Inspire a Generation of Biotechnology and DNA Breakthroughs
My students need a PCR machine (a thermal cycler) to pursue DNA and genetic science research projects.
FULLY FUNDED! Mr. Wolf's classroom raised $7,286
This project is fully funded
Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month
This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
I teach an extremely eager and bright collection of immigrant high school students, most of whom are from low-income households. All of them have come to America to pursue the American Dream of freedom, a great education, and unfettered opportunity.
As a teacher of English Language Learners, I have found that there is nothing as powerful as hands-on activities for engaging my students and encouraging their language development. DNA science holds particular interest for students because of its application in food science, forensics and medicine. While the resources for doing real DNA science in high school are practical, there is one piece of equipment that is essential, yet currently out of reach of the budget of our small urban school.
Virtually all DNA science relies on one piece of equipment called a thermal cycler or PCR machine. DNA is a powerful molecule, but it exists only in very small quantities in cells. The PCR machine allows us to target pieces of DNA of interest from any living thing and make millions of copies, enough that we can observe it. With this tool, students can do any number of experiments, such as analyzing foods for Genetically Modified genes, testing humans or other animals for disease linked genes, or designing their own experiments to answer their own questions about the genome and heredity. I expect we will make this tool a centerpiece of each unit, using it for 5-10 projects a year in my Biology course, and more in my Science Research course.
Over the last ten years, the PCR machine has become as standard a piece of equipment as a thermometer or a Bunsen burner in most suburban high schools. To adequately prepare for competitive science careers in college and beyond, it is essential that students become familiar with this technology at an early age.
This machine is an investment that will empower hundreds of students at my school for a decade or more. With it, they will be able to pursue everything from a basic understanding of DNA to their own original science research. My students work hard to make their journey to America meaningful. Your donation may be instrumental for a student who goes on to be the next great American success story by making tomorrow's next great scientific breakthrough in medicine or our understanding of the nature of life.
More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Wolf and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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