EXPLORING GENETICS IN THE CLASSROOM: PROPOSING AN EXPERIMENTAL CLASS ON EXTRACTING DNA FROM THE MOUTH AS A TEACHING TOOL

Abstract

This article sought to propose an alternative teaching activity based on scientific experimentation regarding the extraction of DNA from the mouth using homemade materials. The activity in question has as its guiding axis the teaching and learning of Genetics topics (structure and function of deoxyribonucleic acid – DNA) in the discipline of Science and Biology, for students in the final years of primary and secondary education, respectively. Using a simple methodology and alternative materials, the protocol can be carried out in the classroom using: disposable cups, teaspoons, detergent, table salt, water and colored mouthwash. As a main result, the protocol in question allows us to obtain DNA extracted from the students' mouths, visualizing itself in the end as a cluster of molecules (DNA + proteins) that resemble thin clouds with a whitish color inside the glass. The aforementioned activity, together with the involvement of students and discussions mediated by the teacher, will facilitate the learning of the topic covered, making it less abstract, favoring more effectively the assimilation of knowledge by working with the student through experimentation. scientific and proposition of hypotheses.