Within these groups, students will research their person's perspective by going online, reading, and interviewing. Each group will present their researched point of view to the class. Students will be asked to consider numerous ethical issues related to genetic testing and will find that there are no easy answers. Ultimately, students will learn that making an ethical choice requires scientific knowledge and rational inquiry. Before beginning this lesson, students should have a firm understanding of genetics, inheritance patterns, genetic diseases, and genetic tests.
Students can find out more on gene testing at the following website, which is arranged in chapters.
The relevant chapters are noted. Research has shown that students in upper-middle and high school have some understanding that characteristics are determined by a particular genetic entity, which carries information translatable by the cell. However, students of all ages believe that some environmentally produced characteristics can be inherited, especially over several generations. To begin the lesson, have students go to The DNA Files , a series of public radio documentaries about genetic research and its applications. As students listen to the audio file, they should work on the SNL student sheet - Prenatal Genetic Testing .