Biotechnology is:
Any technique that uses living organisms or substances from these organisms to make or modify a product for a practical purpose. Early biotechnologists used fermentation to make wine, beer, and cheese. Later, Louis Pasteur used biotechnology to modify milk to make it safer to drink.
Agricultural biotechnology is a range of tools scientists use to understand and manipulate the genetic make-up of organisms for use in the production of our food and fiber. A biological science credit, this class will give you a hands on approach to cellular biology and the applications to our world food systems.
In this class, you will become a biotechnologist learning and practicing the following:
· Historical, social and cultural and potential applications of biotechnology, global impact of agriculture
· Laboratory skills as applied to biotechnology, scientific and research concepts
· Apply biotechnology to agriculture, food and natural resources including genetic engineering as applied to waste management, biofuel production, plant breeding and biomass production.
· Safety use and application of appropriate technologies
· Principles of leadership and business
· Employability and human relations, career opportunities
The keys to Mrs. Wagner’s classroom success . . . by demonstrating the following skills you WILL be successful in this class.
Responsibility: taking charge of your own action and learning.
Time Management: be aware and plan your time!
Team Work: Work with all people, not just a select few!
Social Skills: Learn how to interact with others – a key to success.
Paying Attention: Keep on track and you will keep your grades up.
Course Description: The three main categories of science are; 1) life science which deals with living things, 2) earth science which investigates earth and space and 3)physical science which deals with matter and energy. This course will emphasize life science, and how changes in cell structure and function can resolve many scientific needs in the world.
Scope and Sequence(standards alignment available upon request)
1st Semester
Unit 1: Introduction to Biotechnology (September/October)
Unit 2: DNA Technologies (October/November)
Unit 3: Proteins December/January
2ND SEMESTER
Unit 4: Agricultural Biotechnology February/March
Unit 5: Research Methods April/May/June
Instructional Philosophy: Students will be given a variety of labs and assignments to help them learn the concepts presented. High quality work is expected and participation is a must. Opportunities will be given to redo work until it meets standards specified during instruction. Classroom activities will include reading, note taking, notebook organization, lab work, research, use of technology, group projects and oral presentations and problem solving. Assessment methods will include written exams, tests, and quizzes, oral and written work, reading assignments, labs and lab write-ups, individual and group projects.
Course Goals:
· Demonstrate understanding of the scientific process and investigations. Show understanding of reporting investigations and explanations in a scientific manner
· Be able to analyze scientific investigations for validity and reliability of results.
· Read, understand and communicate in the language of science.
· Use technology such as word processing, desktop publishing, online research, presentation software for class assignments.
· Demonstrate understanding of energy, matter, forces as they relate to cellular structure and function.
· Develop a conscience and understanding of biotechnology and its impact upon our world.
· Apply scientific concepts to everyday life
Major Course Assignments and Projects: all 25% of grade, skyward grading scale
Scientific Process and Investigations – Lab work and write ups; Group Projects and presentations; Research and investigation; Tests and quizzes.
Room Policies and Procedures:
Academic Integrity: All students are expected to abide by ethical academic standards. Academic dishonesty-including plagiarism, cheating or copying the work of another, using technology for illicit purposes, or any unauthorized communication between students for the purpose of gaining advantage during a test – is strictly prohibited.
Electronic Devices: No electronic devices are allowed in Mrs Wagner’s classroom. Headphones must be put away before entering the classroom. Cell phone must not be seen or heard during class without permission from the instructor.
Absences:It is the responsibility of the student to find out what work they are missing when gone. Please see the student handbook for time requirements.
Weekly Planning :A weekly outline of class activities will be provided either on the white board or projector, or made available in paper format or Google document.
Texts: Biotechnology; An Agricultural Revolution, 2nd edition. Biotechnology: A laboratory Course, as reference. CASE course, information is inherent in lessons.