Key learning points

1. DNA is a chemical substance that can be extracted from the cells of organisms such as fruit.
2. DNA molecules cannot usually be seen with the unaided eye, but clumps of it can be seen when a lot of it is extracted.
3. Observing or following an appropriate method to extract DNA from fruit (e.g. kiwi fruit).
4. Discussion of apparatus and techniques used to filter the tissue and extract the DNA.
5. Observing and describing the appearance of the DNA after extraction.

Keywords

• 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 misconception