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Biology Embedded Task:
Genetically Engineered Food
Introduction
The advancements in the field of biotechnology have allowed scientists to
insert genes into food sources so the altered DNA produces new proteins
that lead to new characteristics in the plants. By inserting a gene into a
particular plant, the resulting protein may make the plant resistant to
insects or resistant to a particular herbicide. The farmers’ ability to yield
larger crops greatly improves when these alterations are made. Other
genetic modifications improve the nutritional quality of food.
Several products that you buy at the grocery store, including; corn, beets,
tomatoes, canola oil and soy are probably genetically modified. You have no
way of knowing unless the manufacturer chooses to label the product.
Opponents to genetically modified food fear that future studies may
uncover health risks linked to ingesting this alters the form of DNA.
Others suggest that the use of genetically altered plants may result in the
overuse of chemicals to control weeds, and ultimately cause adverse
environmental conditions. Currently, there is not a law that mandates the
labeling of genetically modified food products. Do you know if you are eating
genetically modified food? How will you know?
Biology Embedded Task:
Genetically Engineered Food
Task
Your task is to design a flyer “for “ or “against” the labeling of genetically
modified food based on scientific evidence. Use several sources to support
your stance and remember to consider the credibility of your sources when
defending your position.
Process
1. Read the source materials.
Before taking a position, it is important that you consider a variety of
viewpoints. The source materials contain information related to
genetically modified foods.
2. Prepare to design your project.
You have been given two charts that you must complete to help you
determine if you are “for” or “against” the labeling of genetically
modified foods. After completing BOTH of the graphic orgainizers
you will need to choose a side to base your presentation on. Make sure
to include three reasons you are either “for” or “against” the issue and
include your supporting information from the articles you have read.
3. Create your flyer on the computer using the following choices.
1. Glogster: an online poster using many graphics.
(www.glogster.com)
2. Photostory : a presentation format using photos, music and
voice recording.
3. Preszi: an interactive presentation tool similar to powerpoint
but much more fun!
You will need to include the following in your presentation:
1. Give three reasons either “for” or “against” genetically
modified food.
2. You will need to include a minimum of three supporting
details/evidence for each reason.
3. Pictures !!
4. Needs to be colorful, neat and organized.
5. Needs to have a Bibliography and citations that are in MLA
format.
WHERE TO FIND INFORMATION:
1. Genetically Modified Food : Helpful or Harmful?
www.csa.com/discoveryguides/gmfood/overview.php
Focus on the Subheadings :




What are Genetically Modified Foods?
What are some advantages of GM foods?
What are some of the criticisms against GM foods?
How are GM foods labeled?
2. What’s good for you : Genetically Modified Food
http://health.ninemsn.com.au/whatsgoodforyou/theshow/694506/isgenetically-modified-food-safe-to-eat
3. Organic Consumers Association
http://www.organicconsumers.org/monlink.cfm
REASON“AGAINST”
GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOOD
1.
2.
3.
EVIDENCE (QUOTES FROM A
SPECIFIC SOURCE TO SUPPORT
REASON)
REASON“FOR” GENETICALLY
MODIFIED FOOD
1.
2.
3.
EVIDENCE (QUOTES FROM A
SPECIFIC SOURCE TO SUPPORT
REASON)