In this lesson, students will watch the PBS NewsHour video, “Could genetically engineered mice reduce Lyme disease?” and learn how Impact Inventing might help solve this public health problem.
Students will watch the PBS NewsHour video, "Could genetically engineered mice reduce Lyme disease?" and learn how Impact Inventing might help solve this public health problem.
This resource provides directions for how to extract DNA from living organisms such as green split peas.
Students extract and observe DNA from a tomato.
In this activity, students use information to annotate a diagram of pollen processing and use this to justify the management practice of using processed pollen on New Zealand kiwifruit orchards.
This multimedia resource, part of the NC Science Now series, describes how researchers at a biotech start-up at UNC-Charlotte are inserting key DNA codons into the protein-rich seeds of soybeans. This could revolutionize how we take medicines. Components of this resource include a video and a related blog article. Links to these components are provided on the page under the heading "UNC-TV Media."
This multimedia resource, part of the NC Science Now series, describes how researchers at North Carolina A&T State University are developing new materials that could revolutionize medical treatments - smart implants that the body could simply absorb once their work is finished in the patient's body. Components of this resource include a video and a related blog article. Links to these components are provided on the page under the heading "UNC-TV Media."
This multimedia resource, part of the NC Science Now series, describes how zebrafish are being used to test for possible drug therapies for humans and experimental cures for diseases. Components of this resource include a video and a related blog article. Links to these components are provided on the page under the heading "UNC-TV Media."
Students are asked to evaluate data comparing similarities in developing embryos across different organisms. While this is a classic component of understanding evolution, the modern, real-world reason to learn it is to understand the why and how of using model organisms like zebrafish. Students will learn about how model organisms have been used to find treatments to medical problems in the past, how they are used and selected now, and will be able to draw their own conclusions about the similarities among vertebrates vs. other types of animals.
Nanooze is a kid-friendly online magazine that explores nanotechnology. This issue covers current and future applications of nanotechnology to the detection and treatment of disease. Topics include nanotattoos, seeing inside the body, sequencing DNA, an interview with a nanoscientist, and teenier tinier tools.
This multimedia resource, part of the NC Science Now series, describes how the work of Mary-Dell Chilton in the genetic modification of plants and animals launched a new field of research. Supporters say these techniques could help feed the world. Opponents claim that there are safety and environmental issues with the use and consumption of genetically modified foods. Components of this resource include a video and a related blog article. Links to these components are provided on the page under the heading "UNC-TV Media."
This ChemMatters magazine article discusses the recent trend toward producing plant-based plastics, called bioplastics, from plants like sugar cane, potatoes and wheat as an alternative to using petroleum. It explains two types of bioplastics made from simple sugar molecules and discusses pros and cons of bioplastics for consumers and for the environment. It also includes an activity for students to make a compostable bioplastic.
This multimedia resource, part of the NC Science Now series, describes how researchers at UNCCH-IMS have developed a water testing system, using a genetic technology method, to rapidly test coastal waters which will decrease the time needed to notify the public about contamination. Components of this resource include a video and a related blog article. Links to these components are provided on the page under the heading "UNC-TV Media."
This course was created by the Rethink Education Content Development Team. This course is aligned to the NC Standards for 8th Grade Science.
This course was created by the Rethink Education Content Development Team. This course is aligned to the NC Standards for 8th Grade Science.
This course was created by the Rethink Education Content Development Team. This course is aligned to the NC Standards for 8th Grade Science.
Students assume the role of "space doctor" and use gene therapy techniques to treat three ailing aliens who come into the clinic with genetic disorders. Students are provided links to review material that they can access before and during the game to help them choose the correct target tissue and gene delivery vector for each patient.
Students begin the lesson by viewing a video clip that will explain the difference between classical and transgenic breeding of plants. Next, students will work in groups to identify common foods that contain genetically-modified organisms (GMOs). Students will further explore this concept by gathering and synthesizing information regarding the impact of genetically modified organisms on the appearance of desired traits in organisms. Lastly, students will engage in the "RAFT" writing strategy, by taking on the role of a farmer persuading their employees to consider the positive or negative impacts of genetically-modified food crops.
This is an interactive resource in which the student goes through the process staining a yogurt sample to test for gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.
Students explain how a vector can transmit a virus to a host and give examples of vectors and the viruses they might carry. Students will learn how researchers use DNA sequencing to create a powerful tool to track the spread of the Zika virus around the world.