Melanie Yoc

Monica Saraiva
Biology
April 17, 2015

Strawberry Lab Report

In the Strawberry lab we worked with DNA. DNA carries the genes from parent to
offsprings. Functions DNA have is to store our genetic information, to copy information
and also to transmit information. The structure of DNA is a double helix, and its
components are deoxyribonucleic acid, nucleotides, and nucleic acids. The purpose of
this lab was to see what will happen to DNA if it's isolated.
Materials
1 Ziploc bag
2 strawberries
10 mL of DNA Extraction Buffer (soapy and salty water)
1 popsicle stick
~5 mL ice cold Isopropyl alcohol
2 Test tubes and funnels
Methods
What we did for this experiment we placed two strawberries in the Ziploc bag and smushed
them. Then we added the soapy and salty water into the bag, (aka the buffer). We added the
buffer because it will help us get to the DNA much quicker. Since we need to get to the Nucleus
to get to the DNA we have to get through the cell membrane. Cell membrane is made up of fat ,
the soapy and salty water will work as detergent to get through it. The salt will help us isolate the

the DNA from the protein. After the buffer we smashed it some more then poured the new
solution into the funnel. Once it settled we added the Isopropyl alcohol that creates two layers
where the DNA had become visible. We then collected some DNA that had risen to the top.
When i saw the DNA is was small and transparent.
Conclusion
In conclusion we saw that strawberries have plant cells and are eukaryotic. The DNA extraction
buffer had helped us get through the cells and isolate the DNA. When we added the Isopropyl
alcohol it created two layers where DNA was visible to our own eyes in seconds. I figured that
scientists can use DNA for many reasons. Such as to find out ancestors or similar groups we
belong to, also to mix different genes with others and see what the outcome is. The strawberry
lab had helped me understand what DNA is and how it works.

Introduction: 3
Methods/Materials: 4
Conclusion: 4
On-Time/Completeness: 4
Organization/Grammar: 3

Total: 18/20

Great job Melanie!