pgEd had a chance to return to Ms. Galasso’s 7th grade biology classes to hear the results of their work in their Bioethics unit. Having been in a few weeks ago to introduce some key concepts and issues in the field of bioethics, Dana was excited to see what the students had decided to research. The presentation – in the format of a Socratic Seminar – was very impressive. Students were asked to be part of a group conversation, present their research, ask questions that moved the conversation forward, and take a balanced view of the arguments surrounding the issues they chose. The critical thinking and willingness to change one’s mind was very clear to me as an observer. Congrats to Ms. Galasso on a very impressive unit!
Students – the topics you chose were right on the mark. Genetic testing and insurance, organ donation, genetically modified foods and the rights of animals are all difficult topics that are in the news everyday. In fact, here are a few articles you might find interesting — some published within the last few days! Good luck in the future, and keep reading the news about the latest developments in biology, genetics and bioethics!
Idaho farmers files class-action lawsuit against Monsanto over genetically engineered wheat
Facts about genetic discrimination and the Federal law, The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act
Sarah Murnaghan, 10, gets adult lung transplant she fought for (note: More on Cystic Fibrosis )
Fish and Wildlife Services propose endangered species listing for chimpanzees.
ps: Bath, ME continues to be very well represented on Map-Ed.org!