Genetic engineering Lesson Plans

Students examine various genetically engineered foods by lecture and library research. They are then placed in groups of two to produce their ad and make a presentation on a food they have developed.

Students explore genetic engineering and it biological and ethical implications. By conducting experiments with genetically engineered corn and plain corn they determine the difference in taste. Students also discover the effects of herbicides by planting two group of soybeans, one sprayed and the other to left to grow naturally.

Students review the aspects of human clothing and the moral issues associated with it. Individually, they keep a list of the articles related to this issue and research issues related to the ethic issues people are concerned with. In groups, they participate in a debate which they state their argument on the right to privacy in issues associated with cloning and genetic engineering.

Students explore the genetic engineering of food.  In this health lesson students explain how DNA technology can be used to produce food. 

Students discover ethical issues surrounding the practice of genetic engineering in reproductive medicine. They work in pairs, with their partner they discuss genes and why they are important. Students discuss genes. They are explained that genes are inherited from parents and are important because they determine much about behavioral, mental, and physical traits.

Explore genetic engineering through an engaging "Jurassic Park" unit, which is an extensive use of a cross-curricular teaching event. Planned for AP Biology, English, and Calculus students, learners and teachers are involved for 4-6 weeks of study. This unit has four distinct sections which are: Teacher Motivation, Concept Formation, Experimentation and Integration. Links to activities and assessment are included.

Learners investigate the pros and cons of genetic engineering. They watch a short Bill Moyers video, conduct Internet research, create a poster, participate in a pro/con debate, and write an essay expressing their personal feelings on the issue.

Ninth graders study genetic engineering and its relationship with biotechnology.  In this investigative lesson students write a critical thinking paper supporting genetic or the other. 

Students examine the advantages and disadvantages of genetic engineering. In this genetics lesson students simulate the genetic engineering of a human insulin gene.

Learners review concepts of cloning and genetic engineering and participate in a round-table discussion based on the ethics and potential of cloning. Each student then writes an essay on a topic stemming from the debate.