Year 10 Genetics: Gene Technology Assignment

Due Date: Monday 14/11/11 Task: To investigate a gene technology and the issues related to its application
1. Select a topic from the list provided (or negotiate a different appropriate

topic with your teacher). 2. Research and write up your findings including information on the following points:

Outline the purpose of the genetic or biotechnology Explain the technology in terms of the genetics and scientific processes involved (Use diagrams where appropriate)

Give specific examples of the use of this technology e.g. a particular disease, agriculture, reproduction, medical diagnosis or cure

show any links it has with other genetic or biotechnologies Anything else you find interesting Outline the advantages and disadvantages arising from the use of this technology

Identify and discuss any issues that may arise from the use of such technology (ethical/moral, religious, cultural, legal, social, political)

Evaluate the arguments and opinions about the gene technology and its use and write a closing paragraph that includes your own response to any issues arising.

use a variety of sources and (internet, newspapers, books, science journals) record them appropriately in a Bibliography (refer to diary and Library referencing handouts). Remember to source all images and diagrams too!

Presentation
You may present your issue in the form of an article for a newspaper, an interview for TV or radio, a report of a debate, a comic strip, a poster, PowerPoint, Webpage or any other suitable format.

YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO PRESENT THIS INFORMATION TO THE WHOLE CLASS
Assessment Criteria Clearly identify and state the purpose of the gene technology Coherently explain the gene technology showing an understanding of the concepts of heredity and genetics related to the technology Use diagrams and at least one relevant example to support explanations Outline the advantages & disadvantages for the use of the technology Identify and discuss the issues that arise form use of this technology Evaluate the arguments for and against and the opinions about the gene technology, including your own response Presentation is clear, concise and organised with correct spelling, grammar and in your own words All images and information is correctly referenced and a complete bibliography included Overall Assessment and Comments A+ 36 40 5 4 3 2 1 0

A B+ B C+ C D+ D E+ E UG

32 30 28 26 24 22 20 18 16 15

35 31 29 27 25 23 21 19 17 and below

VELs Assessment Grid 5.5 5.75 Science knowledge and understanding awareness of the presentation of 1illustration of a development over time alternative theories scientific concept of a scientific concept about a scientific related to matter, related to matter, concept related to space, energy and/or space, energy and/or matter, space, energy time, which has been time, including evidence and/or time, and the developed through and technology used to evidence used to scientific collaboration, refine understanding of support each theory; for including presentation the concept; for example, particle and and comparison of the example, theories of wave models of light, knowledge and atomic structure origins of the Universe technology which contributed to the development of the concept; for example, the structure of DNA, Human Genome Project 6.5 6.75 Science knowledge and understanding 1knowledge of how understanding of how exploration, based on developing technologies emerging areas of evidence, models and have extended the science have grown theories currently boundaries of scientific from accumulated available, of how knowledge and knowledge and science may develop in endeavour experiences in science the future and where new knowledge may emerge over time Science at work 1use of experimental use of experimental and evaluation of different and theoretical theoretical evidence to perspectives associated evidence to persuade justify proposals for with a science issue, an audience of the responses to a science- including first-hand validity of alternative related problem or issue experimental evidence, solutions in response to and presentation of a science issue alternative solutions and a justified personal stance on the issue 6.25 5.25

What is Gene Technology? From http://www.csiro.au/pubgenesite/whatisgt.htm Gene technology is a term that refers to a whole range of techniques for genetic analysis that depend on the direct manipulation of DNA, the material substance of heredity. The use of gene technology in biomedicine, agriculture, food production and processing is an issue that has evoked strong public interest and concern. The debate has focused on the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in food, their safety and potential impact on the environment. The public better accepts medical and industrial uses of gene technology. The majority of Australians are eager for more quality information about the technology and its applications. Most people think of gene technology as adding genes from other life forms to plants and animals. While this is certainly part of it, the technology is broader than that, and has many more uses. Gene technology is developing at a rapid rate and it will continue to revolutionise basic biological research and development. It provides the potential to improve our health, create a safer and more secure food supply, generate greater prosperity and attain a more sustainable environment. Gene technology is already providing new ways of preventing, treating and curing human and animal diseases; it is helping farmers improve agricultural production with less impact on the environment; and in the near future, it will allow better food products to be available to consumers at reduced cost. The technology has given us vital new products like human insulin for diabetes, interferon and other drugs for treating certain cancers, and vaccines against diseases like hepatitis B. Millions of human lives are protected by gene technology every day. Possible Topics Genetic modification DNA sequencing Human Genome Project Cloning Technology DNA probes Gene marker technology Forensic DNA Fingerprinting Transgenics Gene Silencing Gene Therapy Stem Cell Genetic Engineering DNA markers in breeding Prenatal testing and embryo screening Designer babies selected through reproductive procedures

Websites to get you started http://genetech.csiro.au/index.htm http://www.biotechnology.gov.au