Ethical Gene Editing Debate: DNA's Role in Ethical Dilemmas
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How far should we go in altering our genes, and what principles should guide our decisions about gene editing?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- How does gene editing technology work at the molecular level?
- What are the potential benefits of gene editing for treating diseases or enhancing human capabilities?
- What are the potential risks and unintended consequences of gene editing?
- What ethical frameworks can be used to evaluate the morality of gene editing?
- How do different cultural or religious perspectives influence the ethical considerations of gene editing?
- What are the potential societal impacts of widespread gene editing, including issues of equity and access?
- How can we ensure responsible oversight and regulation of gene editing technologies?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Students will understand the molecular mechanisms of gene editing technologies.
- Students will evaluate the ethical implications of gene editing from multiple perspectives.
- Students will apply their knowledge of DNA and genetics to support arguments in ethical debates.
- Students will analyze the societal impacts of gene editing, including issues of equity and access.
- Students will develop critical thinking skills through the evaluation of complex ethical dilemmas.
Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to students"Designer Baby Dilemma: A Role-Playing Simulation"
Students participate in a role-playing simulation where they are prospective parents considering using gene editing to enhance their child's traits. This activity fosters empathy and encourages students to grapple with the potential societal impacts and personal choices related to gene editing.Portfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.DNA Deep Dive: Structure and Function
Students will explore the structure of DNA and how nucleotide sequences determine traits. This activity lays the groundwork for understanding how gene editing works at the molecular level.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA labeled 3D model or detailed diagram of a DNA molecule, accompanied by a written explanation of how nucleotide sequences determine traits.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAddresses BIO.7.A by requiring students to identify DNA components and explain how nucleotide sequences specify traits."Debate Prep: Building a Case"
Students choose a specific ethical question related to gene editing and gather evidence to support their arguments. They will practice constructing logical arguments and anticipating counterarguments in preparation for a debate.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed outline of their argument, including supporting evidence and rebuttals to potential counterarguments.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsSupports the learning goals of applying knowledge of DNA and genetics to support arguments in ethical debates and developing critical thinking skills."CRISPR Mechanics: A Molecular Editing Tool"
Students investigate the CRISPR-Cas9 system, the predominant gene editing technology. They will learn how it works on a molecular level and its potential applications.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA visual representation of the CRISPR-Cas9 system with a written explanation of its function, advantages, and limitations.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsBuilds on BIO.7.A by examining a specific scientific explanation (CRISPR-Cas9) for altering DNA.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioGene Editing Ethics Portfolio Rubric
DNA Structure and Function
Understanding the molecular structure of DNA and its role in specifying traits.Accuracy of DNA Model
Correctness and completeness of the DNA model, including labeled components and accurate representation of nucleotide pairing.
Exemplary
4 PointsModel accurately represents all components of DNA with precise labeling and demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of nucleotide pairing rules. The explanation is thorough and insightful.
Proficient
3 PointsModel accurately represents most components of DNA with clear labeling and demonstrates a good understanding of nucleotide pairing rules. The explanation is clear and accurate.
Developing
2 PointsModel represents some components of DNA with basic labeling, but may contain minor inaccuracies in nucleotide pairing. The explanation shows a basic understanding of DNA structure.
Beginning
1 PointsModel is incomplete or contains significant inaccuracies in the representation of DNA components and nucleotide pairing. The explanation demonstrates limited understanding of DNA structure.
Explanation of Trait Specification
Clarity and accuracy of the written explanation of how nucleotide sequences determine traits.
Exemplary
4 PointsProvides a comprehensive and insightful explanation of how nucleotide sequences code for traits, including relevant examples and demonstrating a deep understanding of the central dogma of molecular biology.
Proficient
3 PointsProvides a clear and accurate explanation of how nucleotide sequences code for traits, with relevant examples.
Developing
2 PointsProvides a basic explanation of how nucleotide sequences code for traits, but may lack detail or clarity.
Beginning
1 PointsProvides a limited or inaccurate explanation of how nucleotide sequences code for traits.
Ethical Argumentation
Strength and coherence of the argument presented on an ethical issue related to gene editing.Evidence and Reasoning
Quality and relevance of evidence used to support the argument, as well as the logical flow and soundness of reasoning.
Exemplary
4 PointsPresents a compelling argument with strong, relevant evidence and demonstrates exceptional logical reasoning. Anticipates and effectively addresses counterarguments with sophisticated analysis.
Proficient
3 PointsPresents a well-reasoned argument with relevant evidence and demonstrates good logical reasoning. Addresses potential counterarguments effectively.
Developing
2 PointsPresents an argument with some supporting evidence, but reasoning may be inconsistent or incomplete. Acknowledges counterarguments but does not fully address them.
Beginning
1 PointsPresents a weak argument with limited or irrelevant evidence. Reasoning is unclear or flawed, and counterarguments are not addressed.
Clarity and Organization
Clarity of the argument and the organization of supporting evidence and rebuttals.
Exemplary
4 PointsArgument is exceptionally clear, concise, and logically organized. The outline is well-structured and easy to follow, enhancing the persuasiveness of the argument.
Proficient
3 PointsArgument is clear and well-organized, with a logical flow of evidence and rebuttals. The outline is easy to follow.
Developing
2 PointsArgument is generally understandable, but may lack clarity or organization in some areas. The outline may be somewhat disorganized.
Beginning
1 PointsArgument is unclear, disorganized, and difficult to follow. The outline is poorly structured and lacks coherence.
CRISPR-Cas9 Mechanism
Understanding and accurate representation of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system.Accuracy of Visual Representation
Correctness and detail of the visual representation (diagram, animation, or infographic) of the CRISPR-Cas9 system.
Exemplary
4 PointsVisual representation is exceptionally accurate, detailed, and visually appealing, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the CRISPR-Cas9 system. All components are clearly labeled and their functions are well-illustrated.
Proficient
3 PointsVisual representation is accurate and clearly illustrates the key components and functions of the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Labeling is clear and complete.
Developing
2 PointsVisual representation contains some inaccuracies or lacks detail in the representation of the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Labeling may be incomplete or unclear.
Beginning
1 PointsVisual representation is inaccurate, incomplete, or lacks clarity in the representation of the CRISPR-Cas9 system. Labeling is minimal or missing.
Explanation of Advantages and Limitations
Clarity and comprehensiveness of the written explanation of the advantages and limitations of CRISPR-Cas9 compared to other gene editing techniques.
Exemplary
4 PointsProvides a comprehensive and insightful explanation of the advantages and limitations of CRISPR-Cas9, demonstrating a deep understanding of its capabilities and drawbacks compared to other gene editing techniques. Includes specific examples and considers potential future developments.
Proficient
3 PointsProvides a clear and accurate explanation of the advantages and limitations of CRISPR-Cas9 compared to other gene editing techniques.
Developing
2 PointsProvides a basic explanation of the advantages and limitations of CRISPR-Cas9, but may lack detail or clarity.
Beginning
1 PointsProvides a limited or inaccurate explanation of the advantages and limitations of CRISPR-Cas9.