Focus on Risk: Biotechnology
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The word “biotechnology” usually conjures images of modern techniques and topics of controversy such as cloning, stem cell research, and genetically modified organisms. However, the practice of manipulating organisms to create a product has long been used by human societies.
Project Learning Tree’s Biotechnology supplement is designed for high school and community college educators in the fields of Biology, Environmental Science, Social Studies, and Agriculture. A special effort has been made to construct activities that support instruction in AP Biology, AP Environmental Science, and AP Human Geography. This module was created as a supplement to PLT’s Focus on Risk curriculum.
Reviews
“Biotechnology does much more for us than what is depicted in popular criminal investigation shows on television. Teaching biotechnology in the classroom can be a wonderful way to increase student interest in science and technology while at the same time showcasing how much biotechnology is part of our everyday lives. Biotechnology has been with us for a long time, it is here to stay, and with the help of PLT you’ll enjoy teaching about it in your classroom!” – Cindy Ghent, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, Maryland
Bioremediation
Students learn how living organisms are used to process materials or produce certain results, and how modern bioengineering techniques are used to mimic natural processes for the cleanup of sewage, oil spills, and other environmental toxins.
Biotechnology and Human Health
Students simulate the spread of disease, learn about different types of vaccines and the controversies surrounding them, and explore how genetically engineered plants can be used to produce a new class of edible vaccines.
Biotechnology and You
Students explore artificial selection and learn how advances in science are allowing increasingly specific methods of genetic manipulation in organisms. Students explore risks and benefits and concerns that affect what we eat and wear.
Forest Biotechnology
Students learn how traditional methods of artificial selection and modern methods of bioengineering have been used to improve the quality of forests products worldwide. Students investigate both the risks and benefits of genetically modifying trees.
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Environmental Quality Investigation
Students investigate areas where improvements can be made in indoor air quality, transportation, chemical use, and more.
Energy Investigation
Students investigate how much energy their school uses, the main sources of that energy, and ways to implement energy-saving strategies.
Learn About Forests: Web of Life
This Learn About Forest activity is perfect for forest sector professionals leading educational events, career days, or field visits with youth. By creating a physical web, learners model the interconnectedness of organisms in an ecosystem.
Learn About Forests: Tree Cookies
This Learn About Forest activity is perfect for forest sector professionals leading educational events, career days, or field visits with youth. Learners examine cross-sections of trees and infer from a tree’s growth rings.