Year 7 - Science
DNA from fruit
Heredity and DNA
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
This unit examines the transmission of genetic information through heredity, how scientific methods evolve with new evidence, the importance of publishing and peer review, and the Study of DNA, chromosomes, and genes while developing lab skills focusing on safety.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to observe DNA extracted from fruit and identify the main apparatus and steps in the extraction method.
Key Notes
- DNA is a chemical substance that can be extracted from the cells of organisms such as fruit.
- DNA molecules cannot usually be seen with the unaided eye, but clumps of it can be seen when a lot of it is extracted.
- Observing or following an appropriate method to extract DNA from fruit (e.g. kiwi fruit).
- Discussion of apparatus and techniques used to filter the tissue and extract the DNA.
- Observing and describing the appearance of the DNA after extraction.
Vocabulary To Learn
- 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.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- DNA is just 'genetic information' and not a substance; not all organisms contain DNA (e.g. plants).
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Explain the scientific idea in this lesson using two key points.
DNA is a chemical substance that can be extracted from the cells of organisms such as fruit. DNA molecules cannot usually be seen with the unaided eye, but clumps of it can be seen when a lot of it is extracted.
2. Define this scientific word and use it in context. '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. Include the word in a full scientific explanation, not as a single label.
3. Correct this common scientific misunderstanding.
Mistake: DNA is just 'genetic information' and not a substance; not all organisms contain DNA (e.g. plants). Correction: The lesson demonstrates that DNA is a physical, chemical substance that can be extracted from cells, and shows that plants contain DNA.
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