We know it's hard to teach protein synthesis in a way that feels relevant to students. That’s why we’re excited to share a new central phenomenon we’re all a little too familiar with - COVID! Christina Moore from Jones College Prep shares the unit she developed for freshman biology students that allows them to explore individual driving questions around the pandemic. By the end, students understand protein structure & functions and can use COVID variants to explain mutations. Students also research mRNA vaccines and develop PSAs to educate their communities about what they’ve learned.

Along with exploring the unit materials and facilitation notes developed by Christina, participants also try miniPCR bio’s COVID qPCR Lab! In this hands-on activity, students use the principles of qPCR diagnostics to screen travelers moving through an imaginary airport COVID-19 facility.

Dinner and parking are provided!