Learning Guide Module: Investigating Genetically Engineered Organisms Course: MVU Sample Learning Goals/Outcomes The student will

be able to: Define genetically modified organisms List the risks and benefits of research on G.M.Os Explore the do-it-yourself biology movement Develop proposals seeking to either restrict or permit research into genetically modifying the avian flu virus *Create a G.M.O. that could be used by the government

Learning Resources Required Do-It-Yourself Biology, on the Wings of the Mockingjay, by James Gorman Genetically Modified Organism University of CA San Diego DIY Biology DIY Biology Organization Controversial Flu Research Published Genetically Modified Foods and Organisms Human Genome Project Genetically Modified Foods: Harmful or Helpful?

Additional: National Scientific Advisory Board for Biosecurity Regulation for DIY Biology Bird Flu jumps to Pigs Science journal could give recipe for deadly avian flu virus Scientists to Pause Research on Deadly Strain of Bird Flu GMO Facts Non GMO Project GMO Compass (List of possible genetically modified foods)

Learning Activities Discussion of the mockingjay and the real world List of benefits and risks of G.M.Os Discussion of DIY Biology Research on genetically modifying the avian flu virus Presentation, using facts to support their stance, on genetically modifying the avian flu virus Discussion on presentations Reflection: Create a GMO for government use

Discussion Questions Could a situation like the mockingjays from the Hunger Games happen in the real world? What conditions would be required for a genetically engineered organisms to hybridize with a while animal or plant? What steps could be put in place to keep this from happening? What is a genetically modified organism? What is the value of creating genetically modified organisms? What are some of the concerns? 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? Which presentation was the most convincing (cannot vote for yourself)? Why?

Self Assessment By the end of this module you will be able to: Define a G.M.O. Identify benefits and risks of G.M.Os Support a stance(with facts) on the research in the avian flu Reflect: create a G.M.O for government use. What are the benefits? Are there any potential risks involved in creating the G.M.O?

Lesson Evaluation: Graded Assessments Completed discussion questions o MockingJay o DIY Biology o Presentation Conclusion Create List of benefits and risks of G.M.Os Complete assigned group presentation of Avian Flu Reflection: Create a G.M.O for government use. What are the benefits? Are there any potential risks involved in creating the G.M.O?