Biochemistry: The Building Blocks of Life

Through engaging hands-on experiments, students will explore the building blocks of life, including proteins, enzymes, DNA, and carbohydrates. They'll uncover how our bodies use chemical reactions to produce energy, grow, heal, and fight disease — and even discover how biochemistry is used to understand medicine, agriculture, and the environment. Students might extract DNA from strawberries, simulate enzyme reactions, create edible models of cells, or explore how pH levels affect living organisms.

Course Highlights:

• Explore Molecular Structures: Learn about the composition and function of key biomolecules through models and interactive activities.
• Hands-On Experiments: Conduct fun and safe biochemistry experiments like testing for macromolecules in food or observing how enzymes break down substances.
• Scientific Skills: Build foundational lab skills including observation, data collection, hypothesis testing, and scientific communication.

Course Outcomes:

By the end of the program, students will be able to:

1. Identify and describe the four major biomolecules: proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and nucleic acids.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of chemical reactions that support life.
3. Conduct basic laboratory experiments and accurately record and interpret results.
4. Make connections between biochemistry and everyday life, from food to health to the environment.
5. Cultivate scientific curiosity and confidence in asking questions, exploring ideas, and drawing conclusions.