This interactive, modular lab explores the techniques used to identify different types of bacteria based on their DNA sequences.

In this lab, students prepare and analyze a virtual bacterial DNA sample. In the process, they learn about several common molecular biology methods, including DNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA sequencing and analysis. These methods are applicable in a wide variety of settings, including scientific research and forensic labs.

The lab contains an interactive lab space and an informational notebook with detailed procedures. It also includes supplementary resources, such as a glossary of scientific terms, images of equipment and tools, and an encyclopedia of bacteria.

The accompanying worksheet provides structure and guidance as students perform the procedures in the lab.

The “Resource Google Folder” link directs to a Google Drive folder of resource documents in the Google Docs format. Not all downloadable documents for the resource may be available in this format. The Google Drive folder is set as “View Only”; to save a copy of a document in this folder to your Google Drive, open that document, then select File → “Make a copy.” These documents can be copied, modified, and distributed online following the Terms of Use listed in the “Details” section below, including crediting BioInteractive.