A selection of resources for Schools

The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and its use in scientific research

PCR, which amplifies short sections of DNA, is used in many areas of the biological sciences. Final year Biological Sciences student William Fraser chose to produce a video about PCR and its use to detect bacteria without the need to grow them in the laboratory.  Working with staff at Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College, Northwich, Cheshire and research staff from the Institute of integrative Biology at the University of Liverpool, he planned, filmed and edited the short video.  It starts with an animation of the steps in PCR (targeted at A-level requirements) and then shows Dr David Rooks using PCR in research about the microorganisms that breakdown cellulose.

A transcript‌ and worksheet for the video are available

Integrated pest management

Integrated pest management (IPM) aims to protect crops through keeping pests below an economically damaging level, rather than attempting total eradication. Through understanding the ecology of both crop and pest, and considering all the factors relevant to crop production, a cost-effective strategy can be designed, monitored and adapted throughout the year.  Charlotte Jack and Emily Lane, final year B. Sc. Biological Sciences students at the University of Liverpool have produced this video to help students studying A-level Biology understand IPM.  Working with staff at Sir John Deane’s Sixth Form College, Northwich, Cheshire, UK and research staff from the Institute of Integrative Biology at the University of Liverpool as well as Oxitec Ltd, they planned, filmed and edited this short video.  After describing the IPM cycle, there are two examples of the use of these concepts.  The first is in the glasshouses at the University, where monitoring and biological control is used to counter red spider mite.  The second describes methods being developed by a company, Oxitec, to use outdoors to control insect pests.  The video shows an IPM strategy to control the olive fly (Bactrocera oleae), a major pest of world-wide olive production.

A transcript and worksheet for the video are available