Which Plasmid Is It?

Developed by: Daniel McDonnell
© American Association of Immunologists 1998

Background
An Immex problem set for advanced placement biology. Problem solving in pre-college classrooms is improved by use of teacher authored software. We and others authored new IMMEX (Interactive Multi-Media Exercises) problem sets with an emphasis in molecular and immunological protocols. Special attention was used in addressing problem sets to the Advanced Placement Biology Curriculum taught in high schools across the nation. The problem sets require the identification of an unknown plasmid using standard protocols for restriction digests and Western blotting techniques. Using an advanced feature of IMMEX software the instructor gives immediate feedback to the student concerning their problem solving strategies. We have shown that by using the problem sets in a pre-post test environment greatly increases levels of interest in immunology and molecular biology. Students who were pre-tested using the IMMEX software, followed by hands on laboratory based instruction then post-tested, showed significant improvement in comprehension and problem solving strategies. The authors employed current laboratory protocols in order to make problem sets applicable for training in undergraduate problem sets applicable for training in undergraduate labs.

Prolog
As a student in the lab you are asked to get a plasmid out of the freezer. When you get to the freezer and open up the box you realize that the water in the freezer has smeared the name on the tube containing the plasmid. You need to use molecular biology techniques to determine which plasmid is in the container. From your lab book and invoices you know what the possible plasmids are.

For a complete copy of the curriculum, please go to www.immex.ucla.edu.