G.M.O.s
Lesson Objectives
After this lesson you will be able to:
-Recognize that genetic engineering techniques provide great potential and responsibilities.
(HS-LS1-1)
-Cite examples of genetically modified organisms.
-Give examples of both positive and negatives to using GMOs.
Background
A genetically modified organism (GMO) is any organism whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. -Wikipedia
Watch this short video clip (3:49) from The Nerdist where Kyle Hill explains how we use GMOs in society today and how they relate to the movie "The Hunger Games."
Task 1
Read this New York Times article entitled D.I.Y. Biology, on the Wings of the Mockingjay by James Gorman. After reading the article please answer the following questions:
- What is a genetically modified organism?
- What is a jabberjay? A mockingjay?
- What roles do jabberjays and mockingjays play in the series “The Hunger Games”?
- What is the value of creating genetically modified organisms? What are some of the concerns surrounding G.M.O.’s?
- What predictions can you make for what might happen if the tools of biotechnology spread to everyone, and lead to “an explosion of diversity of new living creatures”?
Task 2
Spend some time reviewing the following web sites and taking notes on the positives and negatives of GMOs. During this task, feel free to use other resources to better establish your understanding of GMOs.
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
Task 3
For your final task in understanding GMOs, their potential, and the responsibilities of using them, you will need to write a letter to the editor. In your letter, please make sure to include: a clear thesis statement as to your stance on GMOs, a working definition of genetically modified organisms, supporting details of both positive and negatives to using GMOs, and finally a call to action for or against using GMOs.