See what Long Beach students learned in some hands-on science camps

Long Beach Public Schools recently hosted two on-site science camps to keep students engaged in and learning about science over their summer break.

The “Fun with DNA” and “World of Enzymes” summer science camps were in partnership with the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center, allowing Long Beach Middle School students to enjoy the day.

Fun with DNA was an entry-level course in DNA science designed especially for highly motivated students interested in expanding their knowledge of basic genetics and cell biology. Campers constructed cell and DNA models, used compound microscopes to view various cell types, extracted DNA from their own cells and from plants and used stereo microscopes to observe mutations in fruit flies and firefly genes.

World of Enzymes was developed as a sequel to Fun With DNA. The camp builds on basic concepts of biochemistry and molecular biology and enables students to utilize advanced techniques to manipulate DNA. Students built molecular models, observed enzymes in action that are used for food production and healthcare, used enzymes to cut and splice DNA, analyzed DNA fragments and made a personal DNA fingerprint.

Both camps concluded with a visitors’ day that showcased activities that guests could participate in so they could experience the types of labs that the students did throughout the week.