PCR Workshops - booking now open
From September 2009, three science centres across the UK will be delivering A Question of Taste workshops for classes of post-16 students. These centres are:
- NOWGEN, in Manchester
- Centre for Life, in Newcastle
- Explore-At-Bristol, in Bristol
Other centres can deliver the workshop by using the protocol below.
Nowgen have developed the protocol for A Question of Taste, Centre for Life has developed resources to accompany the practical and Explore-At-Bristol has developed activities to encourage discussion about relevant scientific issues. All these resources can be downloaded for free and used in the classroom.
Workshop details
In the workshop, delivered by trained scientific and exhibition staff, students will examine their own TAS2R38 gene and see if the results correlate with their ability to taste PTC. They will perform DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis to investigate their DNA and explore why it may be that some humans and chimpanzees have evolved to not taste bitter tastes.
These documents highlight background information, curriculum links and a detailed protocol for the Question of Taste workshops:
Download background information
Booking information
Schools can book A Question of Taste workshops for the 2009/2010 academic year. Please contact individual science centre websites to find out more about booking A Question of Taste workshops.
Nowgen
Nowgen, based in Manchester, is a centre of expertise in genetics in healthcare, which sets out to inform and improve the practice of genetic medicine. Nowgen works with teachers and students to ensure that the next generation appreciates the scientific, social and ethical issues associated with genetics in medicine.
Visit their website for more information about A Question of Taste at Nowgen, or contact Nowgen's Events Team on 0161 276 5956, bookings@nowgen.org.uk to arrange your booking.
Centre for Life
Centre for LIFE in Newcastle upon Tyne has a dedicated suite of teaching laboratories in which they offer a wide range of science workshops to school groups of all ages. Please see www.life.org.uk for more information or call 0191 243 8211 to book your Question of Taste workshop.
Explore-At-Bristol
Explore-At-Bristol is a one-stop destination for a great day out with endless educational opportunities in Bristol. To book on a Question of Taste workshop at the science centre please call 0845 345 1235 or visit their website for further information.
