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Advances in technology have opened up new possibilities in fields as diverse as medicine, food production, and conservation biology. In manipulating living organisms, humans have the ability to solve many of society's concerns. However, a deep understanding of the technologies and the ethical implications involved must be brought into the decision making process. In this sequence, students will have the opportunity to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of using biotechnology as a tool in conservation biology.

In this activity, students use a diagram to predict the steps in genetically modifying organisms and cloning. Students read a text on each process to confirm or clarify their understanding of the process.

How can we use biotechnology to identify evolutionary relationships between organisms and to help conserve biodiversity? In this task, students use evidence from a set of laboratory tests to identify a close relative of an endangered plant, Botana curus, and explore alternative ways in which biotechnology can be used to conserve this species.

In this lab, students explore the structure of DNA.

In this activity, students use an online simulation to explore the different types of mutations and how mutations impact traits.

In this lab, students learn how to use gel electrophoresis as a conservation tool.

DNA, as students learned earlier in the year, is found in all living things, and has a common role in heredity. In this unit, students investigate genetic processes including protein synthesis, inheritance, and gene expression. They then learn about modifications of these processes through the lens of genetic engineering, biotechnology, and natural selection. Students will investigate these concepts through background readings, interactive simulations, and hands-on experience with biotechnology labs including analyzing DNA samples using gel electrophoresis.

Students use the anticipation guide to surface their prior knowledge about genetics and biotechnology. After completing the unit, students return to the guide to reflect on how their thinking has changed.

In all organisms, the coded instructions for specifying the characteristics of the organism are carried in DNA. In this sequence, student will explore the chemical and structural properties of DNA and the process of protein synthesis in order to understand the molecular basis of heredity. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to think about mutations and their role in providing genetic diversity.

In this activity, students have the opportunity to generate observations about the process of protein synthesis, using an online simulation. Students clarify their understanding using text.

Students learn about the role of biotechnology in conservation through this mandated State Lab.