Science
The Technology of Biology: This one-year course serves to introduce the principles of biology through a biotechnological perspective. A general high school biology class focuses on the study of life ranging from the atoms that build up the macromolecules that serve as the foundation of life to how different ecosystems interact within a biosphere. Biotechnology aims to help improve our lives and the health of our planet by harnessing cellular and biomolecular processes. Students will use an integrated approach to study the principles that govern life while constantly referring to how these applications of biotechnology are attempting to improve life on earth. For example, modern biotechnology provides ground breaking products and technologies to combat diseases, reduce our environmental footprint, feed the hungry, use less and cleaner energy, and have safer, cleaner, and more efficient industrial manufacturing. This course challenges students to honestly evaluate the current problems faced in the 21st century and apply their knowledge of foundational biology to propose possible solutions using biotechnological techniques. Upon completion of the course, students will identify a medical or environmental problem, research possible products of biotech companies that are attempting to address that problem, prepare an advertisement campaign to educate the public of the identified problem, and justify why their product is the answer. Upon successful completion of the course, students will have a better understanding of current biological concepts and biotechnological applications.
(Source: University of California Curriculum Integration Center ( http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/the-technology-of-biology.html )
Physics and Engineering: Motion by Design: Students apply principles of physics and engineering to an iterative cycle of product design. In this year-long, integrated, course, students will develop an understanding of fundamental physics concepts in kinematics, mechanics, mechanical and electromagnetic waves, and electricity/electromagnetism while exploring robotics, computer programming, computer aided design (CAD) and rapid product development. Working individually and in teams, students complete a series of design challenges to develop key skills in computer programming, 3D modeling software, engineering technology, and physics concepts. The course culminates with competition-ready, semi-autonomous devices presented as marketable products designed to serve a specific purpose in the local community. These projects promote critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity and provide a foundation for data collection, analysis, reflection, presentations and technical writing skills. By successfully completing the course, students will be prepared for success in college science and engineering as well as in high-demand careers like automation and advanced manufacturing.
(Source: University of California Curriculum Integration Center ( http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/physics-and-engineering-motion-by-design.html )
Chemistry and Engineering Design: Solving Local and Global Challenges: Students will examine, explore, and experiment with a variety of Chemistry concepts in order to better understand how such knowledge can be used to engineer tools, products, or systems for using energy to meet human needs–such as water purification, energy needs for a community, and ways to store energy. Students will tackle challenges framed around creating sustainability related to water, food, or energy consumption in a hypothetical small village. The culminating project of the course requires students to present a report that includes CAD models or prototypes, bill of materials, and Gantt chart to achieve their selected goal. They will also present their project to an authentic audience and receive feedback. In order to demonstrate and integrate student learning of both Chemistry and Engineering design, students will be prompted to collect work samples for a portfolio that will also support them with completing their culminating project.
(Source: University of California Curriculum Integration Center: ( http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/chemistry-and-engineering-design-solving-local-global-challenges.html )
The Science and Ethics of Biotechnology
http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/the-science-and-ethics-of-biotechnology.html
Note: The Science and Ethics of Biotechnology is a UC-designated honors course. Modern biological and laboratory techniques have opened a wide range of topics and opportunities for secondary students to explore and experience. With the goal of building understanding and mastering essential laboratory techniques, students examine concepts and conduct relevant and authentic laboratory investigations. Students review and extend learning in cell biology, biomolecules and atomic structure, DNA, gene expression and genetic code, evolution, physiology, and energy and metabolism. Students apply this knowledge to the learning and practice of lab techniques used in academic, commercial, and medical laboratories, such as PCR, electrophoresis, transformation, and cell culturing and generate authentic and relevant products similar to those created and interpreted in any number of labs applying biotechnology.
WGBH Learning Media STEM Videos
https://mass.pbslearningmedia.org/collection/healthier-humans/#.WTnHHxPytE4
Learn how you can tap into America’s #1 Educational Media Brand for access to thousands of innovative, standards-aligned digital resources, compelling student experiences, and professional development opportunities.
Genetic Science Learning Center
Biotechnology Tutorials and Protocols ( http://www.the-odin.com)
Link to view our Google Drive
University of Arizona Biotech Activities
http://biotech.bio5.org/activities
The University of Arizona developed the BIOTECH Project to provide technical support for Arizona teachers to conduct molecular genetics experiments (DNA science) with their students
DNA Learning Center
https://www.dnalc.org/resources/
The mission of the DNA Learning Center is to prepare students and families to thrive in the gene age. We envision a day when all elementary students are exposed to principles of genetics and disease risk; when all high school students have the opportunity to do hands-on experiments with DNA; and when all families have access to genetic information they need to make informed health care choices.
(Source: University of California Curriculum Integration Center ( http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/the-technology-of-biology.html )
Physics and Engineering: Motion by Design: Students apply principles of physics and engineering to an iterative cycle of product design. In this year-long, integrated, course, students will develop an understanding of fundamental physics concepts in kinematics, mechanics, mechanical and electromagnetic waves, and electricity/electromagnetism while exploring robotics, computer programming, computer aided design (CAD) and rapid product development. Working individually and in teams, students complete a series of design challenges to develop key skills in computer programming, 3D modeling software, engineering technology, and physics concepts. The course culminates with competition-ready, semi-autonomous devices presented as marketable products designed to serve a specific purpose in the local community. These projects promote critical thinking, communication, collaboration, creativity and provide a foundation for data collection, analysis, reflection, presentations and technical writing skills. By successfully completing the course, students will be prepared for success in college science and engineering as well as in high-demand careers like automation and advanced manufacturing.
(Source: University of California Curriculum Integration Center ( http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/physics-and-engineering-motion-by-design.html )
Chemistry and Engineering Design: Solving Local and Global Challenges: Students will examine, explore, and experiment with a variety of Chemistry concepts in order to better understand how such knowledge can be used to engineer tools, products, or systems for using energy to meet human needs–such as water purification, energy needs for a community, and ways to store energy. Students will tackle challenges framed around creating sustainability related to water, food, or energy consumption in a hypothetical small village. The culminating project of the course requires students to present a report that includes CAD models or prototypes, bill of materials, and Gantt chart to achieve their selected goal. They will also present their project to an authentic audience and receive feedback. In order to demonstrate and integrate student learning of both Chemistry and Engineering design, students will be prompted to collect work samples for a portfolio that will also support them with completing their culminating project.
(Source: University of California Curriculum Integration Center: ( http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/chemistry-and-engineering-design-solving-local-global-challenges.html )
The Science and Ethics of Biotechnology
http://ucci.ucop.edu/integrated-courses/the-science-and-ethics-of-biotechnology.html
Note: The Science and Ethics of Biotechnology is a UC-designated honors course. Modern biological and laboratory techniques have opened a wide range of topics and opportunities for secondary students to explore and experience. With the goal of building understanding and mastering essential laboratory techniques, students examine concepts and conduct relevant and authentic laboratory investigations. Students review and extend learning in cell biology, biomolecules and atomic structure, DNA, gene expression and genetic code, evolution, physiology, and energy and metabolism. Students apply this knowledge to the learning and practice of lab techniques used in academic, commercial, and medical laboratories, such as PCR, electrophoresis, transformation, and cell culturing and generate authentic and relevant products similar to those created and interpreted in any number of labs applying biotechnology.
WGBH Learning Media STEM Videos
https://mass.pbslearningmedia.org/collection/healthier-humans/#.WTnHHxPytE4
Learn how you can tap into America’s #1 Educational Media Brand for access to thousands of innovative, standards-aligned digital resources, compelling student experiences, and professional development opportunities.
Genetic Science Learning Center
- http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/- Simulations
- http://teach.genetics.utah.edu/- Curriculum Modules
Biotechnology Tutorials and Protocols ( http://www.the-odin.com)
Link to view our Google Drive
- 16s rDNA Amplification
- (Advanced) CRISPR Gene Editing in Bacteria
- Bioluminescent Bacteria
- CRISPR Bacterial Guide
- CRISPR Yeast Guide
- DRD4 Genotyping
- Engineer Bioluminescent Bacteria
- Engineer Any Yeast To Fluoresce
- Engineer Your Own Fluorescent Yeast
- Homebrew Yeast Capture Kit
- How to Pipette
- How to Streak Bacteria on Agar Plates
- Making Agar Plates for Bacterial Growth
- Make Agarose Gels and Run Gel Electrophoresis
- PCR Reactions
- pDusk and pDawn
- Primer Design
- Protein Computational Science
- PTC Genotyping
- Reviving Strains From Filter Paper
- Sequencing
- Taq Polymerase Purification
- The ILIAD Project
- The Search For Mars Regolith Hardening Bacteria
- Transforming Bacteria
- Transforming Yeast
University of Arizona Biotech Activities
http://biotech.bio5.org/activities
The University of Arizona developed the BIOTECH Project to provide technical support for Arizona teachers to conduct molecular genetics experiments (DNA science) with their students
- Penicillium Antibiotic Effect
- Kiwi DNA Extraction
- Agarose Gel Electrophoresis with Dyes
- DNA Fingerprinting
- Huntington’s Disease Clinical Investigation and DNA Electrophoresis
- Restriction Enzyme Analysis
- Sickle Cell Anemia
- Bacterial Transformation-General - Teaches Genotype to Phenotype Concepts
- Bacterial Transformation-Regulation- Teaches Gene Regulation/Inducible Promoter
- Bacterial Transformation with GFP and
- PCR of GFP (staining with Methylene Blue)
- PCR of GFP (staining with Ethidium Bromide)
- Extra material for GFP PCR:
DNA Learning Center
https://www.dnalc.org/resources/
The mission of the DNA Learning Center is to prepare students and families to thrive in the gene age. We envision a day when all elementary students are exposed to principles of genetics and disease risk; when all high school students have the opportunity to do hands-on experiments with DNA; and when all families have access to genetic information they need to make informed health care choices.