Description
Product Details
Intermediate—Easy to perform; requires some background knowledge.
Developed in cooperation with Dr. Robert Thomson, formerly of Marquette University. Students identify and confirm the identity of bacteria with different antibiotic resistance by streaking on different antibiotic selective media. Strains are then combined on a “mating” plate to allow conjugation. Results are tested on various media for growth response to demonstrate that DNA can be transferred between 2 genetically different cells. Requires an overnight culture and minimal teacher preparation. Kit is designed for 16 to 32 students working in groups of 2 or 4 (8 stations).
Note: This kit includes a voucher to request perishable materials later at your convenience. Contact us or return the voucher to request delivery of perishable materials. Antibiotic solutions and cultures last 1 month when refrigerated.
Product Features
- In this bacterial conjugation lab students observe the results of bacterial gene transfer for antibiotic resistance from one E. coli strain to another.
- Kit includes voucher to request perishable materials later at your convenience.
- For 16 to 32 students working in groups of 2 or 4 (8 stations)
Time Requirement
Teacher prep. Approximately four, 50-minute lab periods.
Digital Resources
Includes 1-year access to digital resources that include a teacher’s manual, student guide, and more.
Crosscutting Concepts
Patterns
Cause and Effect
Disciplinary Core Ideas
HS-LS2.D: Social Interactions and Group Behavior
HS-LS3.A: Inheritance of Traits
HS-LS3.B: Variation of Traits
HS-LS4.C: Adaptation
Science and Engineering Practices
Analyzing and Interpreting Data
Constructing Explanations and Designing Solutions
Engaging in Argument from Evidence
Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Information
Learning Objectives
- Learn about bacterial conjugation, a naturally occurring mechanism of genetic recombination.
- Be introduced to one way in which bacterial antibiotic resistance is spread.
- Practice interpreting experimental results and providing an explanation for observed patterns.
- Acquire hands-on experience working with bacteria.
Prerequisite Knowledge and Skills
Students should feel comfortable taking appropriate safety precautions when handling bacteria. They should have basic knowledge of genetic recombination, inheritance, and natural selection.