Summary

This lesson will be used to explore the ethics of genetic engineering. With a team, students choose a form of biotechnology such as cloning, stem cell research, gene therapy, GMOs, DNA fingerprinting, CRISPR, DNA databases (e.g. Ancestry.com or 23andMe.com), etc. and research the pros and cons of that technology. The team then splits into debate teams and draws straws to determine whether they are on the "pro" or "con" side. They will debate in front of the class allowing others in the class to learn about both sides.

Learning Goals

This activity is designed to have students practice working as a team and analyze the pros and cons of their technology. Other skills students will use are research skills, organizing information, and oral presentation in the form of a debate.

Context for Use

Students should be allowed to choose a technology of interest to them, but each team should choose a different biotechnology. They would need research skills such as finding resources and using the internet to find information. Several class sessions will be needed to allow students time to research, organize, and present their information. 

Subject: Biology, General Science

Resource Type: Classroom Activity
Grade Level: High (Grades 9-12)

Description and Teaching Materials

Begin with a discussion of biotechnology. Ask students to brainstorm with a partner to compile a list of the information they already know about biotechnology in general. Allow students to choose a specific biotechnology of interest to them. Group teams according to interest. After students have had adequate time to research and organize their information, have them draw straws to find what side of the debate they will argue. Students will debate in front of the class in order to give everyone an opportunity to hear about the different biotechnologies.

The following websites are some potential resources to get students started in their research. As students are researching, you should monitor their sources to verify their validity. This project is a good time to discuss using and finding credible resources. 

About Cloning - https://www.livescience.com/58079-cloning-facts.html

The Pros and Cons of DNA Databases - https://fortune.com/2018/09/10/genetic-history-test-privacy-risk/

The Pros and Cons of Stem Cell Research - https://www.thebalance.com/pros-and-cons-of-stem-cell-research-375483

Teaching Notes and Tips

Modeling a debate may be necessary. A grading rubric is included to ensure student learning expectations are met.

Assessment

Students will be required to turn in their debate notes. Observation of the debate will determine whether or not students were aware of the bioethics of their biotechnology.

References and Resources

Original remix based on the following activity

https://goopenva.org/courses/alternative-energy-debate/view

Erin Johnson
Lakeview Elementary
Albert Lea MN 

Secondary remix based on the following activity

https://goopenva.org/authoring/276-alternative-energy-debate [1]

Emily Harris