Genome sequencing is like solving one of the most intricate puzzles in the world, a puzzle made not of cardboard but of DNA. Every living organism, from the tiniest bacterium to human beings, carries a unique instruction manual written in a four-letter code: A, T, G, and C. Sequencing this code helps scientists understand what makes each organism unique, how traits are inherited, and even how certain diseases develop.

In this activity, you will take on the role of a genetic scientist and simulate the sequencing process. Instead of real DNA, you will work with fragments from a paragraph taken from the Harry Potter series. Your task is to arrange these fragments in the correct order to reveal the prophecy hidden within.

DNA fingerprinting is a technique used to identify individuals based on unique patterns in their DNA. It is commonly used in forensic science, paternity testing, and genetic research. The process relies on cutting DNA at specific sites using restriction enzymes and separating the fragments by size using a process called gel electrophoresis.

In this activity, you will simulate the process of DNA fingerprinting using a printed DNA sequence and restriction enzymes. By following these steps, you will learn how DNA is cut, sorted, and analyzed to create a unique DNA fingerprint, just like scientists do in real-life forensics and genetics labs.

All living organisms are made up of cells. Inside nearly every cell is a special code that makes every organism unique. The code is called DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, which is the hereditary material that carries the instructions for life and allows cells and organisms to function. Most DNA is located in the cell nucleus (nuclear DNA), while a smaller amount can also be found in mitochondria (mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA).

In this activity using a few simple materials, and some easy steps, you will extract DNA from cells and see the long, stringy fibers that carry the instructions of life.