Dolly, DNA & Me: Cells & Inheritance

Look at your cells, create your own cell model and learn about your own DNA!

Learning Level: P6 - P7 (upper primary)

Location: Easter Bush Science Outreach Centre, University of Edinburgh Easter Bush Campus, EH25 9RG 

Minimum attendance: 16  (if your group falls below the minimum, we may be able to group you with another school)

Maximum attendance: 33

Duration: 4 hours 

Timings: 10am - 2pm

Cost: £4 per pupil  

Availability:  2025  

February: 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 & 27

March: 4, 5, 6, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 & 27

April: 1, 2 & 3

Please note a booking enquiry form is not a booking. We try our best to accommodate everyone but these workshops are very popular.

Workshop Description

In this workshop you will get a chance to look at your own cells under the microscope, create your own cell model. You will learn about what DNA is, see how it works and hear about how scientists use DNA in the lab from the scientists themselves.

 

I had such a great time, we were there to learn about DNA but we ended up learning so much more, like how to use a microscope and about Dolly the Sheep.

Primary pupil

Age 11

Learning objectives

  • To understand that living things are made of cells
  • To explore the basic structure of animal cells
  • To learn about DNA and its function and how to extract it
  • To explore the difference between inherited and learned traits
  • To appreciate the contribution that DNA technology has contributed to scientific discovery, and the impact this has made on society
  • To reveal the world of work in scientific research

Workshop activities

  • Creating model cells to learn their structure
  • Using microscopes to look at pupil's own cheek cells
  • Isolating pupil's own DNA from their cheek cells
  • Carrying inheritance activities to understand the genetics behind their own characteristics
  • Discussion with scientists from The Roslin Institute

Curriculum links

Biological Systems
 
Topical science
Body systems and cells
Inheritance
Topical science
By investigating some body systems and potential problems which they may develop, I can make informed decisions to help me to maintain my health and wellbeing. SCN 2-12aBy exploring the characteristics offspring inherit when living things reproduce, I can distinguish between inherited and non-inherited characteristics. SCN 2-14bThrough research and discussion I have an appreciation of the contribution that individuals are making to scientific discovery and invention and the impact this has made on society. SCN 2-20b

Developing the Young Workforce  

This workshop supports the following "I can" statements: 

  • “I can discuss the relevance of skills to the wider world and make connections between skills and the world of work.” 
  • “I can explain to others my ambitions/what I would like to do and look for ways to achieve them/that.” 
  • “I believe I can maximise my potential in any type of work.” 

 

Downloadable Resources

Risk Assessment
Workshop Description 

Testimonials

The workshop was stimulating and interesting. It was pitched at just the right level and the children had lots of opportunity to learn by doing using fabulous equipment  as well as being able to ask questions and engage in discussions. The whole class thoroughly enjoyed the experience. They enjoyed the work in the lab, they loved being able to speak to a real scientist and they loved the tour of the beautiful building. A huge thanks to Jayne and Jack for a fabulous learning experience.

Primary School Teacher

The workshop provided a rich hands on learning experience for the children where they could interact with real scientists and use real equipment in a fabulous setting.  The level of information, pace and delivery were just perfect.

Primary School Teacher

 

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