The Adventures of George Amato, "DNA Detective"

Subject:

Science and Technology

Institution Name:

American Museum of Natural History

Collection:

American Museum of Natural History

Grade Level:

Primary

Abstract:

This fun Web site is part of OLogy, where kids can collect virtual trading cards and create projects with them. Here, they see how DNA is used to solve crimes against animals. The activity starts with an introduction to George Amato, an AMNH scientist who sometimes helps the U.S. government solve mysteries. In a three-part online slide show, students see how Amato earned the title "DNA Detective" in 1993 when he helped the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service catch someone trying to sneak protected reptile skin into the United States. Then students are challenged to Crack the Code, an online game in which they play DNA detective and determine which of a collection of handbags, clothing, figurines, and other items are made from protected species.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Activities and Labs

Media Format:

Graphics/Photos, Text/HTML

Conditions of Use:

Custom Permissions
All text, images, and software code on this website are copyright property of the American Museum of Natural History and its programmers unless otherwise noted. They may be used for the personal education of website visitors. They may not be placed in the public domain. AMNH grants permission to educators and students to use content from OLogy in presentations, posters and bulletin boards, assignments, or other public activities that take place in a classroom or other group learning environment, consistent with the fair use provisions of 17 U.S.C. Section 107.