Whether you’re corralling the youngest future scientists or prepping high schoolers for a career in genomics, we have a variety of activities and resources for you.
Featured Activities Throughout April
Free Strawberry DNA Extraction Kit & Guide
Request a free kit and show your students how to extract DNA from a strawberry. Instructions and step-by-step video included. A favorite among elementary and middle school students!
Virtual Lab Simulation
Go inside the structure of DNA and uncover insights into our ancient human history with a virtual lab interactive & educator guide. Genomic Sequencing: Our Human Past and Present Revealed lets students investigate the ways genomic sequencing is transforming our world, from agriculture to microbiology to human health and beyond.
DNA Decoded Activities & Lesson Plans
DNA Decoded provides ready-to-go, standards-aligned lessons and activities for high school teachers. Check out the DNA Decoded Facilitator Guide to easily customize lessons according to student interests or topics.
Genomics: Decoding the Langauge of Life Virtual Field Trip
Take students inside the labs at Illumina to explore cutting-edge sequencing technology that is being used to decode living things and revolutionize everything from medicine to agriculture to sustainability. Introduce students to an exciting and diverse group of individuals who are working on technology to improve lives and build a healthier future for our planet.
Year Round DNA Activities
Choose your classroom level:
I Am A Scientist Spark Kits
I Am a Scientist teamed up with Illumina to create Spark Kits featuring inspiring scientists doing cutting-edge work. These multimedia kits include stories, lesson plans, illustrations, and career supports for students interested in pursuing diverse careers in biotechnology.
Genomics Activity & Coloring Book
Full of activities like crossword puzzles, mazes, fill-in-the-blanks and word searches, this coloring book is a great way to introduce DNA to your students.
Video Series: Genomics 101 at Home
Learn about DNA, genetics and more in our at-home video series hosted by Illumina employees.
Illumina Cares Youtube Playlist
Follow the Illumina Cares Playlist on YouTube for great videos to share with fellow teachers and post online. Bonus points for uploading your own activity videos!
DNA Day Printable Coloring Page
Add a splash of color to DNA Day with this printable coloring page full of DNA helixes, microscopes, beakers, and more.
Virtual Lab Simulation
Go inside the structure of DNA and uncover insights into our ancient human history with a virtual lab interactive & educator guide. Genomic Sequencing: Our Human Past and Present Revealed lets students investigate the ways genomic sequencing is transforming our world, from agriculture to microbiology to human health and beyond.
Skype a Scientist
Hold a Skype meeting with a scientist! Sessions cover easy-to-understand genomics concepts, making it a perfect classroom experience for any age.
STEM is My Super Power Printable Coloring Page
We share 99.9% of our genes, but there is no one like you. Use your imagination to design a lab coat as unique as you are.
Open Up Science DNA Magazine
Learn about Deoxyribonucleic Acid (aka DNA) with a series of activities and fun puzzles from the Cambridge Science Center.
Science Decoded Puzzle Activity
Use our science themed answer key to solve a series of icon based puzzles. Puzzles relate to either basic scientific terms or influential genomic figures.
San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering STEAM Sessions
Through a virtual platform, these sessions bring diverse STEAM educational content to students, families and educators everywhere with the click of a button.
DNA Decoded Activities & Lesson Plans
DNA Decoded provides ready-to-go, standards-aligned lessons and activities for high school teachers. Check out the DNA Decoded Facilitator Guide to easily customize lessons according to student interests or topics.
“Extracting DNA from strawberries is a favorite activity for my gifted third graders. I was disappointed thinking that the students would miss it this year because we can’t have visitors due to COVID-19. You’ve saved the day. Thank you again for providing these materials.”
– Johnnie Keel, a teacher at Truman Elementary in Norman, OK