Sixth graders learn first-hand from Harvard scientist

Tenacre sixth graders welcomed Tom Schaus, M.D., Ph.D, of Harvard’s Wyss Institute to their classroom this morning a guest speaker. Dr. Schaus, a scientist who studies synthetic DNA systems that interface with biology, spoke to students about molecules, DNA structure, medicine delivery via DNA, DNA origami, Nanotechnology and potential careers in science and engineering.

Sixth graders have been enmeshed in their Genetics unit, learning about molecules and DNA. Science teacher Leah Staffier saw the high level of enthusiasm after students extracted DNA from strawberries and bananas and researched ways to augment the unit with an engineering component. She adapted a DNA origami lesson in which students engineered their own 3-dimensional DNA origami inspired drug delivery structures. Students used string, straws, and pasta to create their structures.

Because of their enthusiasm, Ms. Staffier contacted the Wyss Institute to see if Tenacre could visit and tour the lab. Instead, the Institute offered to send one of its scientists to Tenacre. Dr. Schaus gave an engaging presentation and took questions from the sixth graders.