The Biotechonology Module
| Grade Level: | Advanced/Honors 6th – 8th |
| Where Taught: | Laboratory |
| # Students: | Up to 30, plus one observer |
| Time needed for presentation: | 50 – 90 minutes |
| Georgia Performance Standards (GPS) | |
| Biotech Enrichment Activities | |
This module covers the basics of how a single piece of DNA can make us different in so many ways.
Purpose:
- To introduce students to the principles of molecular genetics that form the foundation of modern biotechnology
- To make students aware of the implications of biotechnology in their own lives
- To expose students to career opportunities in the field of biotechnology
Bio-Bus Fellows will use models of DNA to illustrate genetic information storage, replication and transmission. Students will learn about inheritable genetic traits using the class as a sample population. They will use the tools of the biotechnologist for DNA extraction; they can also do blood typing, if desired. The Fellows will discuss the applications of biotechnology in daily life. Real-life problems that can be solved by biotechnology will be illustrated, as well as career opportunities for biotechnologists. Finally, we discuss some of the hot-topic issues of biotechnology including cloning, xenotransplantation, and genetically-modified foods.
In a 90-minute time period, students can have hand-on experience of some current procedures used in biotechnology.
