Comparing Traditional and Modern Biotechnology Applications

Performance Task: Comparing Biotechnology Applications

Teacher Guide

Standards and Skills

Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS):

  • HS-LS1-4: Use a model to illustrate the role of cellular division (mitosis) and differentiated cells in maintaining homeostasis.

  • HS-LS3-1: Ask questions to clarify relationships about the role of DNA and chromosomes in coding the instructions for characteristic traits.

Skills Taught:

  • Comparing and contrasting two different types of biotechnology applications

  • Analyzing the impact of biotechnology on society and the environment

  • Enhancing research and presentation skills

Task Description

In this task, students will delve into the realm of biotechnology by selecting one traditional biotechnology application (such as fermentation in food production) and one modern biotechnology application (like CRISPR gene editing). They will compare the two, addressing their historical context, scientific principles, societal impact, and ethical considerations. This exploration will help students understand how biotechnology has evolved and continues to shape our world.

Task Delivery
Introduction (15 minutes)

  • Begin with a mini-lecture defining biotechnology and its importance in various fields.

  • Discuss examples of traditional and modern biotechnology applications, emphasizing key differences in techniques and uses.

Research Phase (30 minutes)

  • Divide the class into small groups and assign each group to either a traditional or modern biotechnology application.

  • Provide resources such as textbooks, scientific articles, and online databases for students to conduct their research.

Comparison and Analysis (45 minutes)

  • Each group will create a comparison chart that includes the following points:

    • Background information and historical context of the application

    • Scientific principles involved (e.g., fermentation process for traditional vs. CRISPR gene editing mechanism)

    • Applications and impact on society and environment

    • Ethical considerations and potential risks involved

  • Groups will discuss their findings and prepare to present their comparison to the class.

Presentation (30 minutes)

  • Each group will present their comparison to the class.

  • Encourage questions and discussion to reinforce understanding and provide deeper insights into the implications of both biotechnologies.

Materials Needed

  • Access to textbooks, scientific journals, and reliable online sources

  • Projector or smartboard for presentations

  • Comparison chart templates

  • Poster boards, markers, and other presentation materials (optional)

Student Directions

Performance Task: Comparing Biotechnology Applications

Objective: Examine and compare a traditional and a modern application of biotechnology to understand their origins, mechanisms, impacts, and ethical considerations.

Steps:

  1. Choose Your Applications

    • Select one traditional biotechnology application (e.g., fermentation in bread, beer, or yogurt production) and one modern application (e.g., CRISPR gene editing).

  2. Conduct Research

    • Use the resources provided to gather information about each application. Focus on understanding their processes, historical significance, applications, and impacts.

  3. Create Your Comparison

    • Fill out a comparison chart, highlighting each point requested (background, principles, applications, ethics).

  4. Prepare for Presentation

    • Work collaboratively with your group to create a presentation that summarizes your findings and insights.

  5. Present to the Class

    • Share your research with your peers, and be prepared to answer questions and engage in discussion.

Assessment Criteria

Grading Rubric (20 Points Total)

  • Research Quality (10 Points):

    • 10 Points: Comprehensive research with clear evidence and detailed understanding of both applications.

    • 7 Points: Good research, but lacks detail or clarity in some areas.

    • 4 Points: Limited research with minimal details or misunderstandings of the applications.

    • 1 Point: Very little research or inaccurate information provided.

  • Comparison & Analysis (5 Points):

    • 5 Points: Thorough comparison with clear, logical distinctions made between the applications regarding impact, principles, and ethics.

    • 3 Points: Some comparison made but lacks depth or clarity.

    • 1 Point: Comparison is unclear and lacks relevant distinctions.

  • Presentation Skills (5 Points):

    • 5 Points: Engaging and clear presentation with good teamwork and audience interaction.

    • 3 Points: Generally clear presentation but may lack engagement or organization.

    • 1 Point: Disorganized, unclear presentation with minimal audience engagement.

Exemplar Solution

A group could present a comparison of fermentation and CRISPR, detailing that fermentation, a traditional application, has been used for thousands of years to produce food like yogurt and beer through microbial activity. This process relies on natural metabolic pathways, is generally low-risk, and has historical significance in various cultures. In contrast, CRISPR is a modern, precise gene-editing technology, allowing for targeted modifications in DNA with implications for medicine, agriculture, and biotechnology. Ethical concerns about CRISPR include biodiversity loss and unintended consequences in ecosystems. The presentation clearly outlines these differences, fostering a rich discussion about the evolving field of biotechnology.