The need for genetically modified organisms and issues of the safety, are being hotly debated in the United States, Europe, and other countries. To help students understand this complex issue, they will immerse themselves in projects and pursuits of their choice, during the 2015-2016 school year to decide for themselves, the pros and cons of genetically modified foods.
The images, a simple pepper plant, a tiny lizard on a human fingertip, and the shot from the motion picture “The Fly” represent the range of goals and fears which surround this topic. Those that favor genetically modified organisms have made claims which relate their importance to our food chains. Others make claims for the effects of GMO’s on biodiversity. Finally, there are those that fear the lack of empirical data on the long-term effects on human genetics.
To make my I-image, I used Pixlr. I will admit I resisted using this program even though my instructor suggested this, but I was very satisfied with the end results. It was easy to work with, and very easy to download and install. They provide a variety of templates, and the ability to add and position text. Also included are tools to modify your image, to better fit your individual needs.
The images, a simple pepper plant, a tiny lizard on a human fingertip, and the shot from the motion picture “The Fly” represent the range of goals and fears which surround this topic. Those that favor genetically modified organisms have made claims which relate their importance to our food chains. Others make claims for the effects of GMO’s on biodiversity. Finally, there are those that fear the lack of empirical data on the long-term effects on human genetics.
To make my I-image, I used Pixlr. I will admit I resisted using this program even though my instructor suggested this, but I was very satisfied with the end results. It was easy to work with, and very easy to download and install. They provide a variety of templates, and the ability to add and position text. Also included are tools to modify your image, to better fit your individual needs.
For many years, humans have selectively bred species. Even before Gregor Mendel began his study of genetics, humans selected crops with the best traits, animals with the most favorable traits, those that produced the best milk or meat. This use of selective breeding caused many species to change over time.
Fast forward several to present day, and you will find selective breeding has been replaced by modern technology, which allows the manipulation of genes to achieve new or more desirable species. It is this topic, genetically modified organisms, which will provide the foundation for my students’ studies and technological transformation this upcoming school year.
My video represents the what, and the how of these studies. The repetition of corn, and bugs provide some context as to the types of trans-genic crosses which permeate our food chain, the “what” of our studies. Cell phones will provide the “how”. Rather than deny students use of their cell phones, I plan to work them into our studies as tools for success.
I used Movie Maker to create my video. It was relatively easy to navigate, and fortunately I have a teenage son at home to drag me through the rough spots. What I really liked about this program and process, was that I could do the video, audio, and music in stages. I think my students will love this program.