By Wendy Brunner
“See that slimy substance that looks like snot? That’s the strawberry’s DNA,” said Dr. Joseph Williams, director of assessment and analytics for Kansas City University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine, at the end of an hour-long hands-on science experiment with 45 first graders.
In late April, Dr. Williams showed these students at Neosho, Missouri’s, RISE Elementary School, a school that focuses on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) subjects, how to extract DNA from strawberries. Dr. Williams’ method guided the students through big science concepts in an age-appropriate and engaging way.
“No matter what you do, if you give kids the space to explore and have fun, they take off with it,” Dr. Williams explained. “That’s the whole idea. They bring so much energy and curiosity, and we just need to tap into it. That’s the magic of doing this.”
The DNA-extraction experiment included a strawberry for each student, plus common household items to create the chemical process necessary for the extraction, such as dish soap and salt. The final result was a slimy, snot-like substance, which was the strawberry DNA.
Griffin Johnson, a student in the presentation with an interest in a possible career as a scientist, was thrilled to see the slimy DNA substance clinging to the end of his plastic straw. “This is the kind of science I’m talking about!” he said with pure joy.
Bregan Burch, another student who participated in the experiment, said learning about DNA was fun. “I learned where DNA is and what DNA stands for,” she said. “I also learned other stuff, like what color DNA is.”
Bregan wasn’t sure what she’d like to be when she grows up, but she really likes dolphins, sea turtles and other animals. And she learned during this experiment that all those animals—all living things—have DNA.
Dr. Williams’ lesson focused on staying curious, asking good questions and discovering how science connects to everyday life. He also tied in how future doctors use these same skills as part of their medical training, helping spark early interest in STEM and health careers.
