Virginia BIOSTEM Resources
The Virginia Department of Education and the Virginia BIO Foundation are thrilled to announce the release of an exciting new resource for teachers. The Virginia bioSTEM Resources program offers middle and high school educators a range of bioscience and technology resources they can use with their students. The resources were selected by middle and high school teachers who engage their students in bioscience and technology concepts in an effort to prepare them for the exciting field of bioscience and biotechnology.
Each resource includes a title, description, and correlation to the 2010 Science Standards of Learning. The Virginia bioSTEM program is a partnership with the Virginia BIO Foundation. Send your feedback and recommendations for additional resources to Science@doe.virginia.gov.
Thanks to Melissa Csikari, Cathy Burke, Alice Scheele and Jimmy Green for their work in finding and describing the resources that make this page possible.
Laboratory Activities
- Extracting DNA from Strawberries (PDF) (LS.2a;BIO.1h; BIO.3a)
An easy to follow laboratory activity that shows students how to isolate DNA from plant cells. Students extract DNA by lysing strawberry cells, then watch as wispy white strands of DNA precipitate out of a solution containing ethanol. This lab is easy to follow and uses supplies that can be purchased at the grocery store. - HHMI BioInformatics Lecture Series: Cancer Card Activity (BIO.4d; BIO.5j)
In this dry lab activity, students begin by watching the online video clip and completing a worksheet. After that assignment, instructors can decide which of the two activities (or both!) to use in class. In Activity 1, students identify the locations on chromosomes of genes involved in cancer, using a set of 139 “Cancer Gene Cards” and associated posters. In Activity 2, students explore the genetic basis of cancer by examining cards that list genetic mutations found in the DNA of actual cancer patients.
Loaned Kits
- Bioengineering Kit (BIO.1l, LS.1j)
Fralin Life Sciences Institute at Virginia Tech provides a series of kits on a first come first serve basis for teachers to borrow at no cost to the school. The Bioengineering kit examines the design of wound dressings from the perspective of an engineer. Prepared kits with all equipment and supplies are provided to teachers for a two week period. Request for equipment and dated must be submitted to Kristy DeCourcy early to ensure kit availability. - Gel Electrophoresis and DNA Loaner Kit (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; BIO.5i,f)
Fralin Life Sciences Institute at Virginia Tech provides a series of kits on a first come first serve basis for teachers to borrow at no cost to the school. The Gel Electrophoresis and DNA Loaner Kit provides teachers with Gel Electrophoresis equipment, DNA, and all support equipment to enable teachers to expose students to hands-on biotechnology. Prepared kits with all equipment and supplies are provided to teachers for a two week period. Request for equipment and dated must be submitted to Kristy DeCourcy early to ensure kit availability. - Immunology Loaner Kit from Biotech in a Box (LS.1j; BIO4d,f)
Fralin Life Sciences Institute at Virginia Tech provides a series of kits on a first come first serve basis for teachers to borrow at no cost to the school. The Introduction to Immunology Kit contains background materials on basic immunology, with emphasis on using antibodies as tools in research and in diagnostic tests. The kit features a technique widely used in medicine, drug testing, and forensics: the ELISA (Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay). In this experiment, students share "bodily fluids" to simulate the spread of disease and then test their samples using an ELISA to see if they have been infected. Prepared kits with all equipment and supplies are provided to teachers for a two week period. Request for equipment and dated must be submitted to Kristy DeCourcy early to ensure kit availability. - Column Chromatography Kit (LS.1j; CH2)
Fralin Life Sciences Institute at Virginia Tech provides a series of kits on a first come first serve basis for teachers to borrow at no cost to the school. Column chromatography is a technique commonly used to purify proteins, both in research labs and in the biotechnology industry. The Column Chromatography Kit contains materials for running three types of chromatographic columns: gel filtration, which separates molecules by size; ion exchange, which separates based on charge; and reverse phase, which separates molecules based on polarity. A scenario in which the students determine whether groundwater runoff is contaminated is provided in the manual. Prepared kits with all equipment and supplies are provided to teachers for a two week period. Request for equipment and dated must be submitted to Kristy DeCourcy early to ensure kit availability.
Virtual Labs
- Virtual Biology Labs (BIO.1)
The site hosts a variety of interactive biology virtual labs. The site has both virtual and audio components. - Gel Electrophoresis (BIO.1b,e,h,i,m; BIO.2a; BIO.5i,j; LS.1j; LS.13a,f)
Using a crime scenario with DNA evidence, students make a prediction, learn about gel electrophoresis instruments and procedures, and answer concluding questions. - Testing Antibacterial Agents (BIO.1a,b,e,h,i,m; BIO.4d; LS.1j)
In this virtual lab, a soiled gym bag is growing bacteria and the student experiments on the best way to disinfect it. To do so, students learn about cell culture instruments and procedures, and perform a controlled experiment. - Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; BIO.5I,j)
This virtual lab is designed for introductory life science or biotechnology students and is provided by the University of Utah Department of Health Sciences. In this virtual lab, the user is guided through the lab bench technique and the fundamental science principles involved in PCR. Students can manipulate objects in the virtual lab but the auditory component does not support student learning. - Microarray (LS.1j; LS.2d; LS.13a,f; BIO.5f,i,j)
Prior to the experiment, students are navigated through a user guided animation on genomics and gene expression. The experiment investigates cancerous cells to healthy cells. Some student interaction required. Auditory component does not support student learning. - Breeding Mutations in Fruit Flies (LS.1j; LS.13f; LS.14a; BIO.5)
A family wants to know the explanation for a light-haired dog giving birth to all dark-haired puppies. To explore the concept of simple inheritance, the student works with the common model organism, the fruit fly. The student manipulates fruit fly breeding through the F2 generation and makes careful observations throughout. By cross-referencing observations with anatomical information, the student analyzes the inherited genotypes and phenotypes of the flies. - Blood Typing (LS.1j; LS.13f; LS.14a; BIO.5f)
A community member needs a blood transfusion. The student first identified tools used in blood typing. Then, by referencing information about antigens, antibodies and histocompatibility, the student makes predictions and performs an investigation that checks for clumping in response to anti-A, anti-B and anti-Rh sera. The student can then analyze donor/recipient compatibility in example cases. - Bacterial Identification Lab (LS.1j; LS.13f; LS.14a; BIO.5j; BIO4d)
This is a lab that has students step into the shoes of a lab bench scientist as they identify different bacterial pathogens. It walks the investigator through DNA isolation, PCR Amplification, DNA Sequencing, and Organism Identification through using the BLAST database. A ready-made worksheet is provided as well to help the student navigate the exercise and provide a gradable assignment. - Transgenic Fly Lab (LS.1j; LS.13f; LS.14a; BIO.5j)
This virtual lab allows students to create transgenic organisms using a animal model, a fruit fly, to study circadian rhythms. The site provided a worksheet that navigates the students through the assignment while creating a study guide or gradable assignment. - Bacterial Transformation (BIO.4d,e,f; Bio5f)
The production of insulin for diabetic treatment is made using genetically engineered bacterial cells. The process of bacterial transformation is modeled using an ampicillin resistant gene and a double control experimental setup. Growth predictions are made, materials and procedures of bacterial transformation and culturing are utilized, and observations are made in order to form inferences and conclusions. - Remote Access Atomic Force Microscope (Physics 12.h; LS.1j; Bio.1i)
Remotely Accessible Instruments for Nanotechnology (RAIN) allows students to access and control microscopes, like FESEM-field emission scanning electron microscopes, and analytical tools, like EDS-energy (X-ray) dispersive spectroscopy, to look at nano-sized materials from the ease of classrooms, or even home computers, all across the country. Students control the tools over the Internet in real-time with the assistance of an experienced engineer at the microscope advising over video conferencing software.
Simulations
- PHET Simulations
These simulations provided through Colorado University can be used to demonstrate a variety of concepts at multiple grade levels and in a variety of science topics. The simulations are also available in a variety of languages. Simulations can be downloaded. - Who wants to live a million years? (LS.1j; LS.10c; LS.11b; LS.14a,c; Bio.7)
Students select traits in this games based simulation and a virtual Darwin “guides” the students through environmental changes. Depending on the mutations they choose, they could be a survivor! The audio component is not needed for completion of the game and may serve as a distraction for some students. - Eukaryotic Cell Cycle and Cancer (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5a)
Students explore the phases, checkpoints, and protein regulators of the cell cycle in this highly interactive click and learn to find out how mutated versions of these proteins can lead to the development of cancer. A video component is also included. - Virtual Microscope (BIO.1i)
Virtual microscope is an interactive tutorial that allows students to manipulate a virtual microscope to practice using a microscope and become familiar with the parts of a microscope. Use of this animation would be appropriate prior to students manipulating microscopes in the laboratory setting. - Brain Pop Microscope (BIO.1i)
Brain Pop Microscope is a virtual lab where students detect microorganisms using microscopy skills- low magnification, high magnification, oil immersion, and gram staining.
Animations
- Gel Electrophoresis (BIO.1b,e,h,i,m; BIO.2a; BIO.5i,j; LS.1j; LS.13a,f)
Gel Electrophoresis is an animated (advance by clicking) approach to teach entry level biology students about gel electrophoresis. This site provides a visual on the procedures involved in gel electrophoresis. Some student interaction is needed to complete sample electrophoresis. - Making SNPS Make Sense (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; BIO.5f,i,j)
The student navigated animation on SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) shows how discovery of these differences in the genome could be used in personalized medicine or improved health care. This content would augment the traditional biology curriculum. The animation is set up as chapters and the student would use arrows to move back and forth through the text. No audio is present in the animation. - Personalized Drug Therapy for Cancer (LS.1j; LS.2d; LS.13a,f; BIO.5f,i,j)
The animation brings the complex treatment of cancer patients down to the level of a layperson or entry level student. The animation provides information on how patients respond to some treatments differently due to their genome. Although the animations may seem elementary, the reading level is fairly high and may be difficult for students with low reading levels. There is no audio to accompany the animation. This content would augment the traditional biology curriculum and would be an example of current biotechnology application. - Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCR) (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5f,i,j)
The high quality video explains the concept or Polymerase Chain Reactions (PCR) in under one minute. Audio explanation accompanies the video component and a thermometer is present to show the role of temperature in the process of PCR. - Sanger Sequencing (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5f,i,j)
This 30 second high quality video explains the concept of Sanger Sequencing which is the precursor for modern methods of sequencing. The animation has both audio and visual components. - DNA Construction (BIO5.g)
This high quality 2 minute and 45 second video highlights the structure of DNA. The content of this video extends beyond the scope of the traditional high school Biology I curriculum; however, it does provide a very good visual of the bonding of the nucleotides in the DNA molecule. - BCR-ABL Cancer Protein Structure and Function (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5a)
Students work through an animated PowerPoint to understand the role of proteins, enzymes, and drug development. The click and learn resource integrates animations, video, and text to describe how understanding the structure of the BCR-ABL kinase led to the development of an effective treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia. This is advanced content for a high school Biology I class and could enrich classroom instruction or be used in second year biology courses. - RNAi (interference) (S.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5a;i,j)
Students work through an animated PowerPoint to better understand RNA interference as an exciting new research tool for shutting down genes. It could also yield new medical treatments. This is outside of the scope of the traditional first year high school biology program and could be used to enrich the Biology I curriculum or as a resource for second year biology courses. No audio component is present in this resource. - Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) (S.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5i,j)
A 52 second animation showing a technique for cloning. The nucleus is removed from a healthy egg. This egg becomes the host for a nucleus that is transplanted from another cell, such as a skin cell. This easy to understand resource is appropriate for any level of Biology I student and has both audio and visual components. - Genetic Engineering (S.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5i,j)
Genetic Engineering is a 1 minute and 12 second animation that shows how a new gene can be inserted into a loop of bacterial DNA called a plasmid. The genetically engineered bacteria are able to manufacture any protein coded by genes on the newly inserted DNA. This easy to understand resource is appropriate for any level of Biology I student and has both audio and visual components.
Apps/Websites
- Gene Therapy (LS.1j; LS.13f; Bio.5j)
This website provided by the University of Utah Department of Health Sciences includes tutorials and interactive activities that enable student to better understand the processes, successes, and the difficulties associated with gene therapy. - What Can I Learn from Worms? Regeneration, Stem Cells and Models (LS.1j; LS.2d; LS.13a,f; BIO.5a,j)
This is an entire unit lesson plan provided by the University of Illinois that includes information on protein and structure/function relationship, the relationship between genes and behavior, the cell cycle, and RNAi. The unit is divided into different lessons that include readings, computer modeling, virtual explorations, and lab activities. This website is free but, requires teacher approval prior to access to the lesson plans. - What Makes Me Tick Tock- Circadian Rhythms, Genetics, and Health (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; Bio.5a,j)
This is an entire unit lesson plan provided by the University of Illinois that includes information on protein and structure/function relationship, the relationship between genes and behavior, the cell cycle, and RNAi. The unit is divided into different lessons that include readings, computer modeling, virtual explorations, and lab activities. This website is free but, requires teacher approval prior to access to the lesson plans. - What changes our mind? Toxicants, exposure, and the environment (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; Bio.5a,h,I,j,; Bio.7b)
What Changes our Mind? is a series of lesson plans provided by the University of Illinois that includes information on toxins and how they affect living organisms. Within this lesson, students are exposed to the effect of drugs or toxicants on organisms, biomagnification, cellular biology, and the complex inner-play between environmental, health and political issues. The unit includes readings, computer modeling, virtual explorations, and allows students to generate and analyze data. Students will also conduct a lab where they examine the effect(s) that a common aquatic algaecide on Daphnia. Using their experimental data, students draw conclusions about safety and control of algae overgrowth in aquatic ecosystems. This website is free but requires teacher approval prior to access to the lesson plans. - Caseit Project (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO5.i,f)
This is a website that uses a case study approach to have students investigate health issues or agricultural practices using biotechnology and includes over 30 simulations/virtual labs on Microarrays, PCR, BLAST, RFLP, Restriction Enzymes, ELISA, Western Blot, and Southern Blot. The site provides case studies as well as guiding questions for teacher to use in fostering class discussions. - PBS Biotechnology (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO5i,f)
PBS has a collection of resources on Biotechnology funded by Amgen. The website is broken up into categories including: Applications, Careers, Concepts, Lesson plans, Tools, and Techniques. The site includes a variety of topics both medical and agricultural. These resources include brief videos and interactives. - PBGE – Partnership for Biotechnology and Genomic Engineering (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; Bio5i,f)
PBGE is a website out of the University of California focusing specifically on improving educator knowledge and providing virtual gaming and lab protocols for students. Currently, there are six biotechnology lab protocols that can be downloaded for free and a virtual game on the plague. - GeneEd (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO5.i,f)
The website GeneEd is a collection of resources funded by NIH. The website is partitioned into the following categories: Topics, Labs and Experiments, Teacher Resources, and Careers in Genetics. Many resources are available for different biological topics. - DNA Barcoding Basics (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; BIO5i,f)
The DNA Barcoding Basics website includes a 45 minute video that explains DNA barcoding and the protocol to conduct DNA barcoding in your classroom. The laboratory protocol does require the classroom to have access to biotechnology equipment such as a vortex, gel electrophoresis, an incubator as well as other equipment and materials. - Greenomes (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; Bio.5i,f)
This site provides an introduction to biotechnology in agriculture and has several lab protocols using plants that include: DNA isolation, PCR amplification, and Gel Electrophoresis. The laboratory protocol does require the classroom to have access to biotechnology equipment such as a vortex, gel electrophoresis, an incubator as well as other equipment and materials. - Inside Cancer (LS.1j; LS.2d; LS.13a,f; LS.14a; BIO.5a, BIO.4f)
Inside Cancer is a website that provides basic information about cancer. There are different sections to choose from that contain information, animations, and videos. - Snurfle Genetics (LS.1j; LS.2d; LS.13f; BIO.5a,b)
This game format app (can also be run in its entirety on the website listed) takes the student through the process of meiosis and independent assortment. The student is able to manipulate items on the screen then answer questions concerning each step of meiosis. Appropriate for a younger audience. No audio is provided.
Field Trips
- The Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (DCLS) (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO1i; CH.1)
The Division of Consolidated Laboratory Sciences in Richmond, VA offers field trips to visit the state laboratory, including the laboratories for Newborn Screening, Molecular biology, Sample Support Services, Microbiology, Chemistry Immunology/Virology, Trace Organics/Motor Fuels/Lottery, Environmental, VELAP/Lab Certification, and Food/Feed/Fertilizer. - HemoShear (BIO1.i)
This biotech company simulates human blood flow physiology (using a proprietary device) to test pharmaceuticals ex situ. A field trip can be from 1-2 hours, and can consist of presentations on the science behind the pharmaceuticals and science careers. A lab tour and hands on activity may be conducted when applicable. - BrightSpec (BIO1.i; CH.1)
BrightSpec builds spectrometers used to detect trace amounts of volatile organic compounds. They could accommodate 2 trips per year; each trip would last up to an hour, including a presentation and tour for up to 15 students. BrightSpec is interested in outreach that provides an example or inspiration to high potential students to work hard and deeply understand some portion of a branch of science. - Cadence Inc. (BIO1.i)
Cadence offers tours of their facilities that are led by young engineers. These tours include demonstrations of robotics, automation, medical devices, design processes, testing equipment, etc. Students are also able to hear engineers talk about their work. A Q&A session about careers and "a day in the life" is also possible. The minimum age would be 12-13, with sophomore age and older being ideal. - CBIC Technology Tour
The Charlottesville Business Innovation Council hosts a "Tech Tour" every October. Recent events have include 60+ tech-related businesses. Tech Tour Day includes an off-site showcase at Piedmont Virginia Community College and on-site visits to local businesses with hour long presentations and tours. Schools must apply prior to the day. All students who participate in the Tech Tour are eligible to apply for that year's CBIC Tech Tour Scholarship. - Nanocharacterization Center (BIO.1h)
Nanocharacterization Center, which houses scanning electron microscopes, and more are willing to host tours for both teachers and students. Teachers are allowed to use of the microscopes with some training.
Videos
- Transgenic Mice Video from HHMI (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO5i,f)
An 11 minute video on transgenic organisms. What do humans, flies, and worms have in common? More than you might think. See how transgenic organisms are engineered and how they enable researchers to study genetic diseases. - HHMI Short Film: The Double Helix (LS.1j; LS.13a,g; BIO.5e,f,g,i)
The History of the discovery of DNA is essential to appreciate how far the field has grown over the last 60 years. The short film the Double Helix describes the evidence that led James Watson and Francis Crick to the discovery of the double-helical structure of DNA and how the structure immediately revealed how genetic information is stored and inherited. - Ted Ed – The Cancer Gene We All Have (LS.1j; LS.2d; LS.13a,f; LS.14a; BIO.5a, BIO.4f)
Within every cell in our body, two copies of a tumor suppressor gene called BRCA1 are tasked with regulating the speed at which cells divide. A short video explains the concept, and viewers are given a chance to assess with a multiple choice and short answer quiz, go deeper with a question prompt and link to another video, and discuss in a virtual forum. - Ted Ed – How do Cancer Cells Behave Differently from Healthy Ones? (LS.1j; LS.2d; LS.13a,f; LS.14a; BIO.5g; BIO.4f)
The short video contrasts normal and cancerous cell growth, discusses treatments, and explains why chemotherapy can affect tissues differently based on the basics of cell division. Viewers are given a chance to assess with a multiple choice and short answer quiz and investigate further through provided links to learn more about the tissues and procedures discussed. - Ted Ed – The Brilliance of Bioluminescence (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.4e; BIO.6d)
The short video shows the biology and ecology of bioluminescence, discusses how it's been used to create transgenic organisms, and imagines future uses of this technology. Viewers are given the chance to assess with a multiple choice and short answer quiz and investigate further through provided links to learn about each aspect of the video, and participate in a virtual discussion. - Ted Ed – What if we could look inside human brains? (LS.1j; BIO.4f)
The short video explains the symptoms of epilepsy, and discusses a novel treatment – the identification and excision of the exact part of the brain that is initiating seizures. It then discusses the potential advances that researchers can make given access to the inside of the brain, including power robo-prosthetics with brain power. Viewers can take a multiple choice and short answer quiz and investigate further through provided links on brain function, the study of brain sections, and a few related Ted Talks. - A Fission Chain Reaction (LS.1j; CH.2b)
This short video provides students a brief demonstration of a nuclear reaction that allows them to visualize a model of nuclear fission. This is taken from Hunting the Elements with David Pogue.
- Ted Ed – Printing a Human Kidney (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.4d; BIO.5j)
Dr. Anthony Atala describes the need for human tissue and organ replacement, gives a brief history of tissue/organ engineering, and presents the amazing things accomplished within his own research. The 2011 talk focuses on the changing technologies of scanning and printing and how this can be integrated with clinical care. Finally, a young recipient of a bioengineered bladder comes on stage for a poignant ending. A formative quiz is provided, as well as links to resources regarding tissue culturing, organ regeneration, and organ transplantation. - Ted Ed – What did dogs teach humans about diabetes? (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.4d)
This video briefly explains the physiological nature of diabetes, and then tells the special role that the dog has played in the discovery of the cause of this disease. It concludes by asserting that dogs, due to a relatively high rate of diabetes amongst these pets, actually benefit from this discovery. A formative quiz is offered, links to diabetes and diabetes detection dogs are given, and a discussion about the ethics of animal testing is made available. - Popped Secret: The Mysterious Evolution of Corn (BIO5.f,i,j; BIO.6b)
This 20 minute video tells the story of the genetic changes involved in the transformation of a wild grass called teosinte into corn. Evidence from genetics supports archeological findings pinpointing corn’s origins to a very particular time and place in Mexico. - Medicine in the Genomic Era (BIO.4d)
In the 2013 Holiday Lectures on Science, leading medical researchers explain how advances in genomics are revolutionizing their work, leading to a better understanding of disease and to improved treatments. Includes segmented video but, it is a total of five hours of filming.
Other
- DNA Sequencing (LS.1j; LS.13f BIO.5j)
This is a BioInteractive Click n' Learn Activity that walks students through the process of DNA sequencing. It is an animated slideshow with embedded videos and there is a student worksheet that accompanies the activity. - DNA Microarray (LS.1j; LS.13f; BIO.5j)
This is a BioInteractive Click n' Learn Activity that teaches students the process of working with large data sets created by microarrays. It is an animated slideshow with embedded videos and there is a student worksheet that navigates students through the activity that creates a gradable assignment for teachers. - PhysicsLab!
This is an online Physics course for High School students that provides content, interactive animations, lab activities, and worksheets. Lab equipment and supervision needs to be provided by instructor. - HHMI Biotechnology Guide for Teacher Resources (LS.1j; LS.13a,f; BIO.5i,f)
HHMI provides a downloadable guide for teachers that includes all of the biotechnology resources created by BioInteractive the educational arm of HHMI. Topics include: PCR, DNA Sequencing, Genetic Engineering, and Microarray. This guide includes multiple classroom-ready worksheets to accompany HHMI’s virtual labs. - Smart Brief
This daily news magazine features current news in the fields of Life Sciences and Technology. The top editor picks are summarized for the readers and links to more information are available for those that are interested in reading more on the topic. - Amgen (BIO.5i,f; BIO.1)
The Amgen Biotech Experience is an innovative science education program that provides teacher professional development, teaching materials, and research-grade equipment and supplies to secondary schools. The program features a hands-on molecular biology curriculum that introduces students to the excitement of scientific discovery. - America's Navy - STEM for the Classroom
The America's Navy- STEM for the Classroom site provides lesson plans, interactive PowerPoints, career exploration, and games. Topics include robotics, buoyancy, sonar and echolocation, science of diving, and GPS. - Carolina Classroom Activities
This Carolina Biological website includes activity sheets and lessons that span may different aspects of the physical and life sciences. The activities also list any products that are needed to complete the projects.