GMOs

MS-LS1-5. Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.MS-LS4-5. Gather and synthesize information about the technologies that have changed the way humans influence the inheritance of desired traits in organisms.

Learning Targets

Construct a scientific explanation based on evidence for how genetic factors influence the growth and development of organisms.

Success Criteria

I know examples of how organisms can be genetically modified.
I have researched ethical arguments regarding genetically modified organisms.
I can argue for or against the use of genetically modified organisms.

Genetically Modified Organisms

Questions to Ponder...

Why are Bart and the Wiggums so obsessed with the new tomatoes?
Do you think Tomacco could be a real fruit?
Do you think Homer should take advantage of this opportunity to make money?

How do we modify organisms?

How to Make a GMO

Read the following article to understand how plants and animals are genetically modified for our food supplies.
As you read think about the benefits and potential problems associated with GMOs.
Make a list of what you think are the potential pros and cons associated with GMOs.

GMO Article

CRISPR

In popular usage, "CRISPR" (pronounced "crisper") is shorthand for "CRISPR-Cas9." CRISPRs are specialized stretches of DNA. The protein Cas9 (or "CRISPR-associated") is an enzyme that acts like a pair of molecular scissors, capable of cutting strands of DNA.

What is Bioethics?

Ethics is a philosophical discipline pertaining to notions of good and bad, right and wrong—our moral life in community.
Bioethics is the application of ethics to the field of medicine and healthcare. Ethicists and bioethicists ask relevant questions more than provide sure and certain answers.