Lesson Plan
University of Minnesota

Dendritic Spines Lab

For Teachers 9th - 12th
This is your brain on drugs ... literally! Your neuroscientists-in-training examine the evidence of drug use on the human brain and how neurons change their connectivity when altered by drugs. They then work together to create testing...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Jurassic Park: The Science and Ethics of Genetic Engineering

For Teachers 10th - 12th
Explore genetic engineering through an engaging "Jurassic Park" unit, which is an extensive use of a cross-curricular teaching event. Planned for AP Biology, English, and Calculus students, learners and teachers are involved for 4-6...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Family Traits

For Teachers 10th - 12th
Students investigate the study of pedigree designs and human genetics. They construct the pedigree representing two, three, or four generations. They investigate their family members' traits for ear lobe attachment, tongue rolling,...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Bioethics: Debates in Human Genetics

For Teachers 9th - 12th
Learners, in groups, research and prepare a debate regarding various bioethical situations. After the debates, each student prepares a ortfolio outlining their own personal opinions.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

DNA AND BLOOD TYPING

For Teachers 9th - 12th
Students list three descriptive characteristics and three functions of DNA, describe two ways that genetics is important in a forensic investigation, and list the four major human blood types.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

One Giant Leap

For Teachers 6th - 12th
Students brainstorm important scientific advancements of the twentieth century. They examine the implications of the completion of the first rough draft of the human genome on society. They research a selected scientific advancement of...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

GMOs: Should We Grow Them?

For Teachers 7th - 12th
Pupils examine the ethics of biotechnology and genetically modifying various organisms. They complete various activities and labs on GMOs and then write a position paper regarding their individual opinions on the subject.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

The Effects of Alcohol and other Teratogens: A model using Zebrafish

For Teachers 9th - 12th
Students investigate the interference of various drugs on an embryo through experimentation. This is an open-ended lab to allow students to see effects of various chemicals humans choose to put in their bodies and create questions they...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Applied Science - Science and Math Pre Lab

For Teachers 4th - 8th
Students find Fibonacci sequences. In this applied Science lesson, students solve Fibonacci sequence problems. Students explore the mathematical patterns of objects in nature.
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

cDNA Sequencing By Restriction Project

For Teachers 9th - 12th
Students try to confirm the sequence of a given cDNA clone using the WWW tools and traditional restriction analysis. They grow the clone, prep the plasmid, cut the plasmid with restriction enzymes and compare their results to what was...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Constant Craving

For Teachers 6th - 12th
Students experience the effect of sensory stimulation through a guided visualization. They explore possible genetic relationships between drug addiction and the nervous system by reading and discussing, "Genetic Studies Promise a Path to...
Lesson Plan
Curated OER

Using Abiotic and Biotic Parameters to Monitor Air Quality

For Teachers 7th - 8th
Learners identify the abiotic factors that influence a river or stream and the organisms that live in it. They measure several abiotic and biotic parameters to gauge water quality. Students examine the biotic environment by identifying...