Scientists and engineers help design and implement technology that affects the quality of life. The process of designing and implementing technology is sequential. To model how scientists and engineers collaborate to accomplish a goal, students will work together.
Students also work collaboratively in a group to model a research and design team.
Use the background information to introduce the concept of biofilms and their role in dental plaque formation. Show the video on biofilms. Start and stop the video during class discussion, as needed, paying particular attention to the segment on dental biofilms. Identify present day technological solutions to the problem of dental plaque caused by biofilms. Present student teams of 3-4 students with the challenge of designing a better toothbrush to control biofilms that cause dental plaque.