Students explore how scientists modify the DNA of organisms and the wide range of applications — from medicine to agriculture — that result from these techniques.
Tap a step to mark it as done.
Teach: genetic engineering, restriction enzyme, plasmid, vector, GMO, CRISPR, gene therapy. The plasmid-as-vector analogy — a plasmid is like a delivery vehicle that carries the gene into the target organism — is the most useful simplification.
Focus on the basic process of gene insertion and the insulin example before introducing CRISPR and ethical debates.
Can students describe the basic steps of genetic engineering? Can they evaluate one application of genetic engineering, including both scientific benefits and ethical concerns?
No resources needed. This is a conceptual and discussion-based lesson requiring no materials.
Students often think all GMOs are dangerous or that all genetic modification is the same. Genetic engineering ranges from bacteria producing medicines (widely accepted) to herbicide-resistant crops (more controversial) — the technology is not inherently good or bad.
Biotechnology is one of the fastest-growing areas of applied science. CRISPR has revolutionised genetic research and holds enormous potential for treating genetic diseases, improving crops, and even combating climate change.
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