A Crime, A Clue and Biotechnology
Youth ages 12 to 14

A Crime, A Clue and Biotechnology is a curriculum designed by a team of Iowa State University state and field youth specialists and county extension education directors. Technical assistance and funding were provided by the Office of Biotechnology at Iowa State University. The goal of the curriculum is to expose youth ages 12 to 14 to the complex scientific and technological issues related to the field of biotechnology. The materials were designed with the primary delivery mode as after-school or summer programs, but they also have application to classroom settings.

The 320-page curriculum includes hands-on activities on the following topics:

• Fingerprinting
• Crime scene and evidence collection
• What is DNA?
• Genes and heredity
• DNA extraction laboratory
• DNA fingerprinting laboratory
• Biotechnology careers
• Practical applications of biotechnology--making cheese, bread, and ice cream
• Biotehics
• Mock trial

Each activity includes student and facilitator instructions with science background information for the teacher. Other features of the curriculum include: a master supply list, sample marketing and public relations materials, a list of Iowa biotechnology companies for field trips and career speakers, biotechnology-related games and recreation ideas, resources, a glossary, and bibliography.

A Crime, A Clue and Biotechnology can be ordered from Extension Distribution Center, 119 Kooser Drive, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011.
Phone: 515-294-5247 Fax: 515-294-2945 E-mail: pubdist@iastate.edu
Order 4H-950.