GMOs

Massachussetts Next Generation Science Standards:

8.MS-LS1-5. Construct and argument based on evidence for how environmental and genetic factors influence the growth of organisms.

8.MS-LS3-1. Develop and use a model to describe that structural changes to genes may or may not result in changes to proteins, and if there are changes to proteins there may be harmful, beneficial, or neutral changes to traits.

8.MS-LS4-5. Synthesize and communicate information about artificial selection, or the ways in which humans have influenced the inheritance of desired traits (such as genetic modification, animal husbandry, and gene therapy).

Guiding Questions on Research:

Using ONLY the sources below, find answers to the following questions as you begin to prepare for a debate.

What is a GMO?
What are some examples of GMOs?
How are GMOs made?
When did we first begin to see the development of GMOs?
What company/companies are leaders in GMOs?
What are some benefits of using GMOs?
What are some drawbacks of using GMOs?
Which countries have/do not have GMO labeling laws?

Sources for Research:

Texts at varied reading levels
Videos or podcasts
Reliable Sources, perhaps contradicting each other or presenting opposing views

What are GMOs?Industrial agriculture's most controversial tool raises concerns over pesticide use and corporate control, but some believe the technology could help feed the world.

Guy Watson: why did BBC's Panorama fall for pro-GM propaganda?The GM food industry has won the PR battle - but it's down to the depths of its pockets rather than the strength of its arguments, says Guy Watson

The Truth about Genetically Modified FoodProponents of genetically modified crops say the technology is the only way to feed a warming, increasingly populous world. Critics say we tamper with nature at our peril. Who is right?

Modern Genetics

Sample Guidelines/Rubric:

GMO Debate Guidelines

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