In previous centuries tailor-made life forms would have only been considered science fiction. Not anymore, thanks to biological engineers, DNA and genetics can be transformed and used to synthesize genetic material to impact life positively and negatively. The DNA molecules are shaped like a twisted ladder. This ladder has taken generations on a journey filled with ethical debates. As biologists slide down the ladder, they have pushed all boundaries from DNA testing, designer babies, and genetically modified foods. Now is the time, you will be challenged to follow the ladder in the journey to discover DNA and genetic engineering.
Driving Question:
Should humans tamper with the blueprint of life? How can we communicate DNA and genetic engineering influence organic matter through the use of artistic elements and scientific literature?
Learning Outcomes:
Skills:
- Collaboration
- Presentations Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Oral and Written Communication Skills
- Scientific Literacy
- Creative and Engineering
Bio 3.1.1 Explain the double-stranded, complementary nature of DNA as related to its function in the cell.
Bio 3.1.1 Develop a cause and effect model relating the structure of DNA to the functions of replication and protein synthesis.
Bio 3.1.2 Explain how DNA and RNA code for proteins and determine traits.
Bio 3.1.3 Understand that mutations are changes in DNA coding and can be deletions, additions, or substitutions. Mutations can be random and spontaneous or caused by radiation and/or chemical exposure.
Bio 3.3.2 Summarize how transgenic organisms are engineered to benefit society.
Bio 3.3.3 Evaluate some of the ethical issues surrounding the use of DNA technology (including cloning, genetically modified organisms, stem cell research, and Human Genome Project).
Bio 3.3.3 Critique the ethical issues and implications of genomics and biotechnology (stem cell research, gene therapy and genetically modified organisms).
Blueprint and Timeline:
Book Selection:
DNA: The Secret of Life
James Watson, the co-discoverer of the structure of DNA and author of the international bestseller, The Double Helix, tells the story of the amazing molecule since its discovery fifty years ago, following modern genetics from his own Nobel prize-winning work in the fifties to today's Dolly the sheep, designer babies and GM foods. Professor Watson introduces the science of modern genetics, along with its history and its implications, in this magnificent guide to one of the most triumphant achievements of human science.
The Violinist's Thumb
In The Disappearing Spoon, bestselling author Sam Kean unlocked the mysteries of the periodic table. In The Violinist's Thumb, he explores the wonders of the magical building block of life: DNA.
There are genes to explain crazy cat ladies, why other people have no fingerprints, and why some people survive nuclear bombs. Genes illuminate everything from JFK's bronze skin (it wasn't a tan) to Einstein's genius. They prove that Neanderthals and humans bred thousands of years more recently than any of us would feel comfortable thinking. They can even allow some people because of the exceptional flexibility of their thumbs and fingers, to become truly singular violinists.
Kean's vibrant storytelling once again makes science entertaining, explaining human history and whimsy while showing how DNA will influence our species' future.
In The Disappearing Spoon, bestselling author Sam Kean unlocked the mysteries of the periodic table. In The Violinist's Thumb, he explores the wonders of the magical building block of life: DNA.
There are genes to explain crazy cat ladies, why other people have no fingerprints, and why some people survive nuclear bombs. Genes illuminate everything from JFK's bronze skin (it wasn't a tan) to Einstein's genius. They prove that Neanderthals and humans bred thousands of years more recently than any of us would feel comfortable thinking. They can even allow some people because of the exceptional flexibility of their thumbs and fingers, to become truly singular violinists.
Kean's vibrant storytelling once again makes science entertaining, explaining human history and whimsy while showing how DNA will influence our species' future.
Seeds of Deception
Without knowing it, Americans eat genetically modified (GM) food everyday. While the food and chemical industries claim that GMO food is safe, a considerable amount of evidence shows otherwise. In Seeds of Deception, Jeffrey Smith, a former executive with the leading independent laboratory testing for GM presence in foods, documents these serious health dangers and explains how corporate influence and government collusion have been used to cover them up.The stories Smith presents read like a mystery novel. Scientists are offered bribes or threatened; evidence is stolen, data withheld, or distorted. Government scientists who complain are stripped of responsibilities or fired. The FDA even withheld information from congress after a GM food supplement killed nearly a hundred people and permanently disabled thousands. While Smith was employed by the laboratory he was not allowed to speak on the health dangers or the cover-up. No longer bound by this agreement, Smith now reveals what he knows in this groundbreaking expose. Today, food companies sell GM foods that have not undergone safety studies. FDA scientists opposed this, but White House and industry pressure prevailed and the agency's final policy--co-authored by a former Monsanto attorney--denied the risks. The scientists' concerns were made public only after a lawsuit forced the agency to turn over internal documents. In Seeds of Deception, Smith offers easy-to-understand descriptions of genetic engineering and explains why it can result in serious health problems. This well-documented, pivotal work will show you how to protect yourself and your family.
Without knowing it, Americans eat genetically modified (GM) food everyday. While the food and chemical industries claim that GMO food is safe, a considerable amount of evidence shows otherwise. In Seeds of Deception, Jeffrey Smith, a former executive with the leading independent laboratory testing for GM presence in foods, documents these serious health dangers and explains how corporate influence and government collusion have been used to cover them up.The stories Smith presents read like a mystery novel. Scientists are offered bribes or threatened; evidence is stolen, data withheld, or distorted. Government scientists who complain are stripped of responsibilities or fired. The FDA even withheld information from congress after a GM food supplement killed nearly a hundred people and permanently disabled thousands. While Smith was employed by the laboratory he was not allowed to speak on the health dangers or the cover-up. No longer bound by this agreement, Smith now reveals what he knows in this groundbreaking expose. Today, food companies sell GM foods that have not undergone safety studies. FDA scientists opposed this, but White House and industry pressure prevailed and the agency's final policy--co-authored by a former Monsanto attorney--denied the risks. The scientists' concerns were made public only after a lawsuit forced the agency to turn over internal documents. In Seeds of Deception, Smith offers easy-to-understand descriptions of genetic engineering and explains why it can result in serious health problems. This well-documented, pivotal work will show you how to protect yourself and your family.
Phase One: Creating a Blog
Your focus for this project will be DNA and genetic engineering. Throughout scientific history, numerous scientist have been pivotal for the discovery of DNA and genetic engineering. During this project, you will become aware of these scientific pioneers as well as deepen your understanding on DNA and genetic engineering. As you read, you will create new understanding of the text through blogging. For each section below, choose one of the blog prompts and write an entry of at least 250 words. For each entry, you will utilize a different prompt. Be certain you review your writing prior to submitting so that, your audience will be able to connect with the information. A few things to consider is that your submission is clear, engaging, provides details, and contains correct grammar. These blogs will be the framework for your knowledge on DNA and genetic engineering.
Blogging Dates:
- Blog entry one due September 11th.
- Blog entry two due September 15th.
- Blog entry three due September 19th.
- Blog entry four due September 25th.
- Write a letter to one of the people described or explained in the book.
- Does the title of the book have more than one meaning? If so, describe the different meanings. Provide text evidence that led you to this meaning.
- Choose a character from the text who you think is a great scientist. What traits make this person a great scientist? Why are these traits so important? Be specific and use examples from the text!
- Choose an event or passage from the text that relates to something you have learned in Biology this semester. Explain.
- Describe an image that came to your mind while reading this section. What specific language in the text helped you develop this image, and why do you think it is important? Be sure to provide text evidence.
- Describe an event in the text that surprised you. Why was it so surprising? What does this say about your assumptions about science, history, the world, or human nature?
- Choose one of the quotes below and discuss how it relates to events in the text.
- “Genes are like the story, and DNA is the language that the story is written in.” -Sam Kean
- "The beginning of knowledge is the discovery of something we do not understand." - Frank Herbert
- “Science never solves a problem without creating ten more.” -George Bernard Shaw
- “To raise new questions, new possibilities, to regard old problems from a new angle, requires creative imagination and marks real advance in science.” -Albert Einstein
Of course, a blog should never be written in isolation. Part of what's great about a blog is the discussions it begins. So, in addition to your own blog, you will also be asked to write comments on at least two other student blogs; one from a chemistry student and one from a biology student for each section. Each comment should be at least 100 words and should show that you are being thoughtful about what the blogger has written.
PODCAST & CRASH COURSE
Phase Two: Podcast or Crash Course
After reading your selected text, you should have begun to build a foundation of knowledge as well as an opinion regarding DNA and GMO. Now it is time, you and a partner will create either a Podcast or Crash Course Video on DNA or GMO. The information you provide should inform others how DNA and genetic engineering can have negative impacts to society or individual health. This will need to be done alongside your research on this topic. Be sure to choose a topic that concerns you or inspires you to inform others about the specific impacts.
Your Podcast or Crash Course video should:
Podcast Resources:
http://www.mp3mymp3.com/
http://vocaroo.com/
http://www.podbean.com/
http://www.audacityteam.org/
Phase Two: Podcast or Crash Course
After reading your selected text, you should have begun to build a foundation of knowledge as well as an opinion regarding DNA and GMO. Now it is time, you and a partner will create either a Podcast or Crash Course Video on DNA or GMO. The information you provide should inform others how DNA and genetic engineering can have negative impacts to society or individual health. This will need to be done alongside your research on this topic. Be sure to choose a topic that concerns you or inspires you to inform others about the specific impacts.
Your Podcast or Crash Course video should:
- Feature all group members, mixed in a way that is interesting for your listener.
- Be 10-15 minutes long.
- Be accompanied by a detailed, written script including a citation page.
- Give all key information about DNA or GMO and describe its backstory and uniqueness.
- Be saved as an mp3 or mp4 if podcast, youtube video if Crash Course.
- Be creative and original. Use props such as music, scenery, etc.
- Not be the same exact example of DNA or GMO as another group.
- Have a STORY that teaches a lesson about one of these topics.
- Have music and sound effects thoughtfully edited into the episode.
- Have a clear focus and not just a lesson on DNA/GMO.
- Contain at least one interview, this can be with an expert on the material.
- Demonstrate excellent knowledge of the concept.
- Be infused with humor and emotion with a conversational style.
Podcast Resources:
http://www.mp3mymp3.com/
http://vocaroo.com/
http://www.podbean.com/
http://www.audacityteam.org/
DNA or GMO Children's Book
Phase Three: DNA or GMO Children's Book
Beginning to understand DNA and GMO can be very daunting and often overwhelming for many people. During this phase, you will communicate the story of DNA or GMO. As you begin to write remember important categories of DNA/GMO the history, structure, function, and the various components (genes, chromosomes, proteins, enzymes, how they are made).
The Product: Children’s Book
You will write a children’s book on DNA or GMO. This book should be written and illustrated in a creative way that is engaging, colorful, informative and communicated appropriately for 9-12 year old students. As you include illustrations, they will need to be of high quality and the layout should be appropriately designed for the reader to understand the content. It will be essential there are not any errors in spelling, grammar, or mechanics. After your book is submitted, your book may have the opportunity to be displayed at a local elementary or middle school to be shared in their science classes or published in the local library.
Your book should include:
A front and back cover, neatly & securely bound.
A creative/original title on the cover and cover page (the author's name should also be listed on both).
A dedication page, located following the cover page.
An index located in the back of the book.
An about the author bio section in the back of the book including picture.
Resources:
www.liferichpublishing.com/AuthorResources/Children/5-Tips-Writing-for-Children.aspx
writeforkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/11steps.pdf
Beginning to understand DNA and GMO can be very daunting and often overwhelming for many people. During this phase, you will communicate the story of DNA or GMO. As you begin to write remember important categories of DNA/GMO the history, structure, function, and the various components (genes, chromosomes, proteins, enzymes, how they are made).
The Product: Children’s Book
You will write a children’s book on DNA or GMO. This book should be written and illustrated in a creative way that is engaging, colorful, informative and communicated appropriately for 9-12 year old students. As you include illustrations, they will need to be of high quality and the layout should be appropriately designed for the reader to understand the content. It will be essential there are not any errors in spelling, grammar, or mechanics. After your book is submitted, your book may have the opportunity to be displayed at a local elementary or middle school to be shared in their science classes or published in the local library.
Your book should include:
A front and back cover, neatly & securely bound.
A creative/original title on the cover and cover page (the author's name should also be listed on both).
A dedication page, located following the cover page.
An index located in the back of the book.
An about the author bio section in the back of the book including picture.
Resources:
www.liferichpublishing.com/AuthorResources/Children/5-Tips-Writing-for-Children.aspx
writeforkids.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/11steps.pdf
CRIME SCENE FORENSIC LAB:
A crime has been committed and you, as the forensic detective, are going to use your knowledge of DNA and protein synthesis to solve the crime. You will be working with a task force of other professionals that will aid you in solving this biological crime.
A crime has been committed and you, as the forensic detective, are going to use your knowledge of DNA and protein synthesis to solve the crime. You will be working with a task force of other professionals that will aid you in solving this biological crime.
FINAL PRODUCT:
After all of your research and recent works in the darker side of science, you will be creating an artistic representation of a DNA or GMO. The art can be as creative as you want, however, needs to show why YOU chose to artistically represent DNA or GMO.
What is the dark side of DNA/GMO?
What are its causes and effects?
How can you communicate the negative impacts of it?
It will be challenging to grade creative art pieces, however, it will be very easy to grade effort. Keep that in mind when creating your masterpieces!
Now it's time to show off your work! On November 28th, you will take part in an art gallery style exhibition, which will allow you to display your hard work. Guests will be invited to read your books, listen to your podcasts, view your Bio/Chem posters, and read and comment on your blogs. Your art piece will need to be turned in and completed by November 27th.
Please invite your parents, friends, and coworkers to our gallery.