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DNA Sequence Assembly

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Image from the interactive

Topic

  • Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
  • DNA & RNA
  • Biotechnology
  • Genetics
  • Bioinformatics

Resource Type

  • Interactive Media
  • Click & Learn

Level

High School — GeneralHigh School — AP/IBCollege
Saved By
15 Users
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Description

This tutorial describes the principles of DNA sequencing and sequence assembly, and shows how they apply to different sequencing techniques.

The speed of DNA sequencing has greatly increased, and the cost has substantially decreased, over the years. This Click & Learn reviews three milestone methods that advanced the development of DNA sequencing technology: Sanger sequencing, shotgun sequencing, and ultra-deep sequencing. Although not all of these methods are widely used today, the basic concepts of how DNA sequences are assembled still apply.

The accompanying worksheet guides students’ exploration.

Student Learning Targets

Describe Sanger sequencing, shotgun sequencing, and deep sequencing.

Estimated Time

One to two 50-minute class periods.

Key Terms

bioinformatics, computation, consensus sequence, laboratory technique, next-generation sequencing, nucleotide, overlap sequence, primer, reference genome, whole genome sequencing

Terms of Use

Please see the Terms of Use for information on how this resource can be used.

Version History

Date Published 02.28.10

NGSS (2013)

HS-LS1-1; SEP6

AP Biology (2019)

IST-1.L, IST-1.P, SYI-1.B, SYI-1.C; SP1

IB Biology (2016)

7.1, B.5

Common Core (2010)

ELA.RST.9-12.2; ELA.WHST.9-12.9

Vision and Change (2009)

CC2; DP1

Materials

Worksheet (PDF) 139 KB

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