Stem Cells (MS-HS)
This class introduces the learner to the biological properties of stem cells, important terms relating to stem cells, and the importance of animal and plant stem cells. Stem cells have the capacity to renew themselves, which is why there is so much interest in them.
Stem cells:
• Increase understanding of how diseases occur
• Generate healthy cells to replace diseased cells
• Test new drugs for safety and effectiveness
• Future of agriculture
objectives
Students will:
• Develop understanding of the two main types of stem cells, embryonic and adult
• Recall important terminology
• Use technology to prepare YouTube video summarizing the basics of stem cell therapy
• Demonstrate knowledge of topic by investigating a series of questions through computer search
• Apply information to hands-on lab exercise designed to culture plant stem cells
Topic(s)
Stem cells, biology
type
Middle and high school lesson
7-12
Grade(s):
time needed
6 hours
author
NATURE
national next gen standards
north dakota standards
11-12.2.1. Understandings About Scientific Inquiry: Explain how new knowledge and methods emerge from different types of investigations and public communication among scientists
11-12.4.1. Structure and Function: Explain the importance of cell differentiation in the development of tissues, organs, organ systems, and multi-cellular organisms.
11-12.2.7. Abilities Necessary To Do Scientific Inquiry: Design and conduct an independent investigation
9-10.2.3. Abilities Necessary To Do Scientific Inquiry: Identify questions and concepts that guide scientific investigations
9-10.6.3. Technology and Society: Explain how emerging technologies (e.g., genetic manipulation, biofuels, and hydrogen fuels) may impact society and the environment
MS-LS1-1. Conduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made of cells; either one cell or many different numbers and types of cells.
MS-LS1-2. Develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and ways parts of cells contribute to the function.
MS-LS1-3. Use argument supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells.