We describe an investigative laboratory module designed to give college undergraduates strong practical and theoretical experience with recombinant DNA methods within 3 weeks. After deducing restriction enzyme maps for two different plasmids, students ligate the plasmids together in the same reaction, transform "E. coli" with this mixture of…

Laboratory exercises from five chemistry curricula were examined to determine organization (integration of laboratory work with other parts of a course) and tasks required of students (assessed in terms of inquiry skills and behaviors required for the laboratory work). Implications and suggestions for instruction are included. (Author/JN)