Resources
The Amgen Biotech Experience programme features a series of hands-on molecular laboratory techniques that we have adapted for delivery in Irish classrooms to senior cycle pupils. In conjunction with the Irish Science Teachers Association (ISTA), the ABE-Ireland team worked closely with teachers involved in the initial revision of the senior cycle biology curriculum to ensure that these laboratory practicals would support delivery of the practical elements in the proposed revised syllabus. We have since worked with the Junior Cycle for Teachers (JCT) support service to adapt aspects of the ABE programme for delivery to junior cycle pupils.
Please note: Some resources are only available to teachers who have attended an ABE Ireland training workshop. Please contact ABE-Ireland@ucd.ie for information on how to access these.
Lab 1: Microvolumetric Pipetting
Highlight the extremely small volumes required in many laboratory techniques by getting students to deliver minute volumes accurately and consistently.
Lab 2: DNA Electrophoresis
Introduce DNA profiling by solving a criminal case study using DNA separation by gel electrophoresis.
Lab 3: Restriction Digest
Learn how to use ‘molecular scissors’ (restriction enzymes) to cut DNA.
Lab 4: Ligation
Discover how to put the pieces of DNA together again using ligation enzymes.
Lab 5: PCR - PTC Gene
Learn to unbox and set up the kit loan in their classroom for lab 5 (PCR - PTC gene) of the Amgen Biotech Experience programme.