Get a Life!

Should genetic scientists be permitted to alter mtDNA to eliminate birth defects? That is the question examined in Rob Stein's article for NPR that explores the ethical issues raised by this research.

To prepare for an informed discussion of some of the issues involved in the controversy surrounding the regulation of genetic testing, class members read an annotated article that details how the issue is presented in film and...

Students study how and why new varieties of plant and animal life are created. They explore genetic engineering and biotechnology. They start out by writing paragraphs about their least favorite vegetable and how they would create a new...

Class groups investigate the economic and political implications of a country's policies on genetically modified foods, craft a position paper detailing that policy, and share their findings with the class. Armed with this information,...

Seventh graders write a five paragraph persuasive essay on a contemporary civic-life issue.

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 young scholars, learners and teachers are involved for...

Learners research the genetically-engineered GloFish and write essays expressing their views about the subject. They evaluate the pros and cons of genetic engineering.Students may also hold a debate about genetic engineering.

Students study the Human Genome Project through classroom discussion and the video, Cracking the Code of Life. They research reports about the issues of disease, human health, and the ethical, legal, and societal implications of the...

Students investigate a mock paternity case and the use of DNA.  In this laboratory lesson, students discover four different blood types and the likelihood of certain individuals being responsible for the paternity of a child.  Students...

How are the reactions between American and European consumers different when it comes to genetically modified foods? Use the New York Times article "Consumers in Europe Resist Gene-Altered Foods" to inform your middle schoolers about the...