Medical Applications of Genetic Technologies

Overview

This literacy activity asks students to read an article about genetic technologies with the purpose of answering two questions about various medical applications: Firstly, does the technology change the DNA of the subject? Secondly, does the technology have the potential to change the human population forever? Students then represent their answers using a graphic organiser. Two versions of the article are available (one in summary form) to allow for differentiation. Optional additional questions are also provided.

A full teacher guide is available for this activity. It includes answer sheets for the worksheets. Teachers can email kccgeducation@garvan.org.au from a school email address to gain access.

If you are interested in trialling this resource in your classroom and providing feedback, please email kccgeducation@garvan.org.au 

Assumed Knowledge

-Structure and function of DNA

-Inheritance of genetic diseases

Syllabus Connections (HSC Biology)

Genetic Change

• distinguish between somatic mutations and germ-line mutations and their effect on an organism
• investigate the uses and advantages of current genetic technologies that induce genetic change
• compare the processes and outcomes of reproductive technologies
  • [IVF with PGD as additional example]
• describe techniques and applications used in recombinant DNA technology, for example:
  • the development of transgenic organisms in agricultural and medical applications
• evaluate the benefits of using genetic technologies in agricultural, medical and industrial applications

Conducting Investigations

• select and extract information from a wide range of reliable secondary sources and acknowledge them using an accepted referencing style

Problem Solving

• use scientific evidence and critical thinking skills to solve problems