miniPCR bio™ Electrophoresis Forensics Lab. Wrongfully Convicted? Instructor's and Student's Guide
Version: 1.1 - Release February 2022 - © 2022 by miniPCR bio™
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Instructor's Guide
Differentiation
This lab serves as an introduction to forensic DNA analysis. With simple modifications, this activity can
be used effectively in classes ranging from middle school through advanced high school.
Introductory classes: Focus on how gel electrophoresis can be used to differentiate STR profiles for
genetic identification. The standard introduction and review questions for this lab take this approach.
Advanced classes: Use the extension Probability and DNA profiles (page 25) to discuss population
genetics and how statistical analysis is used to determine the strength of a given DNA profile for
personal identification.
Additional student supports
At miniPCR bio™, we are committed to preparing students to be successful in the laboratory through
high quality curriculum and training. We have created an extensive set of resources to help your
students succeed in molecular biology techniques, all of which are available for free download at the
miniPCR bio™ tutorials page of our website.
https://www.minipcr.com/tutorials/
Activities most relevant to this lab are listed below.
Micropipetting: Video and activity resources to train students in the basic use of a micropipette.
Gel electrophoresis: Video and worksheet activity instructing students on the fundamentals and
practice of agarose gel electrophoresis.
PCR: While students do not perform PCR in this lab, the samples they analyze represent PCR products.
If you want to discuss PCR in more detail with your students, we have a video and worksheet activity
instructing students on the fundamentals and practice of PCR.
