Students will be introduced to genetic engineering by transforming E. coli with the pGLO plasmid to create glowing bacteria. This module uses the Bio-Rad pGLO Transformation and Inquiry Kit which includes materials to perform the initial structured-inquiry lesson as well as one of four guided or open inquiry-based lessons (Transformation Efficiency, Effect of Ampicillin on Bacterial Growth, Effect of Arabinose on GFP Expression, or Satellite Colonies Lab).

Learning Objectives

  • Students will transform  coli with the pGLO plasmid.
  • Students will calculate transformation efficiency.
  • Optional: Students will complete a guided or open inquiry lesson.