Genetic Modification
Can we engineer a solution to world food shortages through genetic modification? You could use these resources to generate effective debate in your classroom so that students can develop well-informed opinions having considered the wider implications of this technology, a variety of viewpoints and the science involved.
Selective Breeding and Genetic Modification
An amusing video from Punk Science which looks at how traits can be selected by breeders to produce offspring with desirable features. This is compared with genetic engineering, in which traits can be transferred from one species to another. This can be used as a light hearted introduction to a lesson which looks at genetic modification.
GM Food
This resource contains story cards, information cards, and issue cards which are used to guide effective group discussion on the issues surrounding GM foods. With detailed teachers notes, worksheets and student information sheets, students should be able to develop a well-informed view point and be able to consider other points of view by the end of the activity.
GM Food
This booklet sets out a number of questions which explore the benefits and risks of food from GM crops. This is good practice for extended questions where students are required to discuss two sides of an arguement. The questions could be used individually at appropriate points in a lesson to assess learning, generate discussion, as a starter to remind students of concepts from the previous lesson or as a plenary. Alternatively, the questions could be given as homeworks.
GM Food
From Debating Matters, this topic guide includes information, further reading and web links to help students understand the issues around the use of genetically modified food crops. It can be used as a source of extra information, a more informal and less structured class discussion, or a starting point for independent research.
Inside STEM careers: investigating antimicrobial properties
For post 16 students, this article shows an interview with a research scientist who is looking for antimicrobial chemicals in plants and using genetic modification to produce new plants that make chemicals to fight or prevent infections. There is also a class practical described for foundation students and extension work for higher students.
Genetic Engineering
These stimulus materials look at the development of genetically modified food crops and provide a questionnaire to help students to consider their views on genetic engineering.
The materials can be used to prompt a discussion on genetic modification and also to look at the applications and implications of science
Starting a Greener Revolution
This article provides background information to set the scene for discussions on world food shortages, fertilisers, pesticides, scientific research and why there may be a need for GM crops.
