This lesson helps students explore the various ways that the science of biotechnology helps humans. Then we will explore the early days of biotechnology and learn about fermentation through an experiment involving yeast.(Most appropriate for grade levels 9-12.)
Lesson Time: 75-80
Student Activity 1: This activity has students researching different sectors of biotechnology to figure out what well-known advancements came from that field of study.
Student Activity 2: Students will run an experiment to find the best fermentation conditions in this activity.
Group work: Students will work in groups of 3-4 students. In order to save time, teachers are asked to create the groups before our Wizard arrives.
High School Standards:
PS.M.5: Reactions of matter
ENV.GP: Global Environmental Problems and Issues
C.IM.1: Chemical reactions
Critical Technology Connections:
The "BioTech2" lesson strongly connects to Biotechnology by exploring various applications of this field and providing a hands-on experience with a core biotechnological process: fermentation. Students learn how biotechnology uses living organisms to improve human life, and through the yeast experiment, they see firsthand how manipulating biological processes can lead to desired outcomes. This aligns directly with the DoD's interest in biotechnology for advancements in medicine, agriculture, environmental protection, and other areas crucial to national security.