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Area of Study 3: How do humans use science to explore and communicate contemporary bioethical issues?
In this area of study students explore a contemporary bioethical issue relating to the application of genetic knowledge, reproductive science, inheritance or adaptations and interdependencies beneficial for survival. Investigation topics include, but are not limited to: genomic and epigenetic research; cloning for agriculture, horticulture or other purposes; assisted reproductive technologies; prenatal and predictive genetic testing; strategies for maintaining genetic diversity within a species or population; the impact of introduced species; changes to specific keystone species on populations and ecosystems; or the use of biomimicry to solve human challenges or biopiracy of Indigenous knowledge. - VCAA 2022-2026
Outcome 3
On completion of this unit the student should be able to identify, analyse and evaluate a bioethical issue in genetics, reproductive science or adaptations beneficial for survival. - VCAA 2022-2026
The key knowledge in this area of study relates to scientific investigations and bioethical issues. The content is covered in chapter 9 in the Nelson textbook.
Key Knowledge
Key Knowledge
Analysis and evaluation of bioethical issues
Analysis and evaluation of bioethical issues
ways of identifying bioethical issues
characteristics of effective analysis of bioethical issues
approaches to bioethics and ethical concepts as they apply to the bioethical issue being investigated.
Key Knowledge
Key Knowledge
Scientific Evidence
Scientific Evidence
the distinction between primary and secondary data
the nature of evidence and information: distinction between opinion, anecdote and evidence, and scientific and non-scientific ideas
the quality of evidence, including validity and authority of data and sources of possible errors or bias
·methods of organising, analysing and evaluating secondary data
the use of a logbook to authenticate collated secondary data
Key Knowledge
Key Knowledge
Scientific Communication
Scientific Communication
biological concepts specific to the investigation: definitions of key terms; use of appropriate biological terminology, conventions and representations
characteristics of effective science communication: accuracy of biological information; clarity of explanation of biological concepts, ideas and models; contextual clarity with reference to importance and implications of findings; conciseness and coherence; and appropriateness for purpose and audience
the use of data representations, models and theories in organising and explaining observed phenomena and biological concepts, and their limitations
the influence of social, economic, legal and political factors relevant to the selected research question
conventions for referencing and acknowledging sources of information
Investigation of Bioethical Issues rubric.pdfAssessment Rubric
Assessment Rubric
Outcome 3 will be assessed through classwork and performance in SAC 3: Investigation of a Bioethical Issue.
The document to the left is the assessment rubric used to assess this task. Refer back to the rubric when completing the investigation to ensure you meet the assessment criteria.
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