Use DNA Fingerprinting to Solve a Mystery #1: Ice Cream Scene

Can you determine who stole all of the chocolate ice cream from Sweet Swirls Delight? In this engaging science worksheet, students will follow forensic investigator Keisha as she uses gel electrophoresis to analyze DNA from the scene of the crime. Young investigators will need to compare the crime scene DNA with the DNA of three suspects in order to find the identity of the thief. 

This worksheet is intended for middle schoolers learning about genetics and DNA. Students will read about how to perform a process real scientists use to analyze DNA samples and why that process works. Use this activity as a stand-alone worksheet, alongside a genetics unit, or as an introduction to a gel electrophoresis lab!

To learn more about DNA fingerprinting, check out Gel Electrophoresis and DNA Fingerprinting or test students' forensic skills again with Use DNA Fingerprinting to Solve a Mystery #2: Long-Lost Dog and Use DNA Fingerprinting to Solve a Mystery #3: A Sour Flower.