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7th Grade Genetics: Home

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how they make those oversized pumpkins so large? Is it possible to completely free yourself from inheriting a fatal heart disease? Could you make an identical copy of yourself? How do police officers track down criminals using blood samples? All of these questions can be answered with knowledge of genetics. Genetics is a topic that has stirred up much controversy and debate in the past decade. The validity, rationale, and utilization of genetics research are constantly under review. Now is your chance to evaluate these topics and implement your knowledge.

Task

Genetics is a topic that applies to numerous phases of life.

The following issues are currently under debate:

  • Cloning

  • STEM Cell Therapy

  • Genetically Modified Organisms/Foods (GMOs)

  • The Creation of a DNA Database (DNA Fingerprinting) and Solving Crimes

  • Pre- & Postnatal Genetic Testing (Newborns and adults)

  • Gene Doping

  • Genetic Engineering (Designer Babies, Animal and Plants manipulation)

 

With respect to the given aspects of genetics, how should federal funding for each of the research topics be allotted?

Everyone has an opinion. What is yours? Why should more funding be allocated to one of these topics? Should one or more receive no funding at all? 

In this project you will work in individually or in teams of two to three. You will complete the following tasks:

 

  1. Research and understand what your technology is, how it works, and the costs.

  2. Split your team into two groups: pros and cons. Each group will research and document their stance (pro or con) on their genetic technology topic.

  3. Your team will create a project to explain the two sides of the debate. Your presentation must include the following:  explanation of the genetic technology &how it works, -the cost, - 3 pros (minimum), 3 cons (minimum)​

  4. Your team will present their topic along with the pros and cons to the class.  The presentation needs to give all the facts so each individual can make their own decision about the funding.

Project Ideas

 

INDIVIDUAL PROJECT IDEAS:

  • Creative Writing

    • At least 1 ½

    • Correct conventions

    • Strong voice

    • Include works cited

    • Includes the required information

  • Live Presentation Slide Example

  • Record a podcast

  • Commercial/News Broadcast

    • (Suggestions--imovie app on iPhone, iPad, recording app in Canvas)

GROUP PROJECT IDEAS (2-3):

  • Live Presentation Slide Example

  • Debate (Recorded)

    • (Suggestions-- WeVideo, imovie app on iPhone, iPad, recording app in Canvas)

  • Documentary Video/News Broadcast/Podcast

  • Commercial (For or Against)

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