Genetics and Transgenic Biotechnology
Overview
Course material will begin with a re-introduction to classical cellular theory, including the structure and function of cells and their component parts. From this foundation we will explore the processes of cell division, heredity and molecular genetics. The basic pathways of genetic variability will be discussed and this knowledge will be brought to bear in relation to our thinking about the possible changes in organisms over long periods of time, its role in human health, and the production of food. Once this framework has been developed a brief introduction to the historical development of ethical thought will be introduced as well as an introduction to expository versus persuasive communication. Lastly, transgenic modification technologies will be introduced. The factual, as well as ethical and moral ramifications of these technologies will be discussed in class in as balanced a manner s possible.
Daily class outlines will be distributed to students. 80% or more of any test and quiz questions will be taken directly from class outlines.
Outline
- Intro: Genetics definition, Scientific method, phenomenology, class experiment
- The Cell: Basic structure and function of the cell
- Cell division: Mitosis- the process whereby cells expand in number
- Meiosis: the forming of cells with half the chromosomes
- DNA- what it is and a little of how it works. Quiz.
- Heredity-the analysis of characteristics of parents and offspring
- Genetic anomelies- some genetic components of health and illness
- Genetic variation/time-sources of genetic change, selection
- Molecular genetics-DNA replication, recombinant DNA
- Killer Test/ Eddie's Day
- Macroethical development of humankind
- student presentation/discussion
Evaluation
Grades will be based on the following:
- Classroom participation: Since much of this course will be open discussion, students are required to participate.
- Main lesson book: Since Main Lesson Book work will take place "live" during class, there will be no excuse for incomplete main lesson books! Main lesson book is due the Monday after the last day of class.
- Three quizzes/tests to determine the students grasp of class content.
- Final project/presentation: Each student will individually or as a team research a specific transgenic organism or process. The student(s) will then lead a class discussion on their research topic. Research discussions will occur during the final week of class. A brief report along with a bibliography of reference sources cited will be deliverable the day the material is presented.
Since we must cram several college semesters worth of material into three short weeks, students are expected to be prepared for an intense load of information. The structure of the classroom presentation and the grading system outlined above are designed to make it impossible to escape without learning!