Activity

How does PCR work?

In this activity, students are asked to view a video and conduct their own research in order to develop an understanding of the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) process and why it is important.

Diagram of a DNA molecule looking like a twisted ladder.

DNA molecule

Diagram of a DNA molecule looking like a twisted ladder.

Rights: 123RF Limited, Pedro Nogueira

By the end of this activity, students should be able to:

  • describe the steps involved in the PCR process

  • explain the purpose of the PCR process

Download the Word file (see link below) for:

  • introduction/background notes

  • what you need

  • what to do

  • student handout.

Published: 29 June 2017