Using Micropipettes

Students will learn how to use micropipettes in preparation for conducting gel electrophoresis and other molecular biology procedures. This importance of this skill was emphasized within the context of my work at JBEI, during which accurate measurement was critical in producing meaningful data. While in the past I have taught a lesson on micropipette use, given its instrumental importance to successful molecular biology research, I have chosen to improve my curriculum. To achieve this aim, students will be provided with directed instruction and practice with using micropipettes. In addition, students will review the metric system and be given background information into the conceptual importance of accurately measuring small volumes. Formative assessments will be associated with metric conversion (important for proper volume setting on the micropipette) and practice pipetting of water droplets (to observe technique), and summative assessment will consist of loading an actual electrophoresis gel.