1. Self-organized learning
You choose the groups
3 students per computer is optimal, but it is your choice
You can talk to any group at any time
You can change groups at any time
You may not discourage anyone from joining your group
Answer the question with as much detail as possible
You probably need to understand most of the topic before you can answer the question
You will be expected to present your findings
This is an important skill
You can’t discover new things if you are reliant on other people to explain things to you
Most modern discoveries require teams of people working together

2. Today’s Question
The machine in the lab is not working correctly. It is supposed to make many copies of a DNA segment, but diagnostic testing shows the following:
There are very few samples of the target DNA segment
There are an equal number of strands that are much longer than the target segment
Specifically explain what the machine is doing wrong
Write a summary of what happens in the sample once the machine is repaired

3. Hints You need to first understand how PCR works
Common misconception: segment alone is placed in the machine and PCR copies it. This is not how PCR works.
Make sure your answer is specific
The machine is doing one specific thing incorrectly
Make sure the solution results in an equal number of “right” and “wrong” segments