Stem Cell Research Unit
Part 1: Stem Cells Background Information
Students will complete a Webquest to learn more about what stem cells are and how they operate. I am currently creating my own Webquest on my MyBigCampus site (www.mybigcampus.com- Advanced Biotechnology Course Group) by combining elements and websites I found online from various educational sites. I hope to combine websites, graphics and videos to help students gain an understanding of the basics of stem cells and how they can be used in biotechnology.
Students will the complete a quiz on Stem Cells through MyBigCampus.com. The quiz is only 8 multiple-choice questions. MyBigCampus automatically grades the quiz and gives students feedback on their quiz.
Part 2: Current Stem Cell Research- completed through MyBigCampus.com
Students will read ONE of the following articles below that interests them. After reading the article, they will need to post a response to the following discussion:
Stem cells have the potential to treat a wide variety of diseases, due to their unique characteristics. Summarize the treatment method that your article discussed and include ONE advantage and ONE disadvantage to using stem cells for this treatment.
After you have posted your information, read through your classmate's posts and comment on THREE of them. Ask your classmates a question you might have about their article or come up with an other advantage and disadvantage for treating their disease with stem cells.
Articles:
1) Researchers Turn Skin Cells Into Brain Cells, a Promising Path to Better Parkinson's Treatment (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120717102405.htm)
2) New Model of Alzheimer's Disease Developed (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120716163243.htm)
3) Neurons Derived from Cord Blood Cells May Represent New Therapeutic Option (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120716162949.htm)
4) Finished Heart Switches Stem Cells Off (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120712131601.htm)
5) Pediatric Brain Tumors Traced to Brain Stem Cells (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120709133425.htm)
6) Discovery of Epigenetic Links in Cell-Fate Decisions of Adult Stem Cells Paves Way for New Osteoporosis Treatments (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120709093229.htm)
7) The Key (Proteins) to Self-Renewing Skin (http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120705180920.htm)
8) Critical Process in Stem Cell Development Identified
(http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/07/120705172046.htm)<br>
Rubricfor Discussion Prompt:
1) "Quantity & Timeliness"--
Does not submit at least one initial response within 48 hours of the discussion being assigned and/or does not submit at least three peer responses closer to the end of the session. (3pts)
Submits at least one initial response within 48 hours of the discussion being assigned, and at least three peer responses closer to the end of the session. (4 pts)
Submits one initial response within 48 hours of the discussion being assigned, and two or more thoughtful peer responses early in the session, and more than three peer responses closer to the end of the session. (5pts)
2) Spelling & Mechanics--
Does not submit posts that are in complete sentences. Or two or more of the complete sentences are grammatically incorrect and have greater than 2 spelling errors. (3pts) Submits posts that have one or more grammatically incorrect sentences and two spelling errors. (4 pts)
Submits posts that contain grammatically correct sentences without any spelling errors.
(5pts)
3) Demonstrates Knowledge & Understanding of Content--
Post and responses show little evidence of knowledge and understanding of course content. (3pts)
Post and responses show evidence of knowledge and understanding of course content. (4pts)
Post and responses show evidence of knowledge and understanding of course content. Also includes other resources or knowledge that extend the assigned material. (5pts)
4) Generates Learning Within the Community
Posts do not attempt to elicit responses and reflections from other learners and/or responses do not build upon the ideas of other learners to take the discussion deepter. (3pts)
Posts attempt to elicit responses and reflections from other learners and responses build upon the ideas of other learners to take the discussion deeper. (4pts)
Posts elicit responses and reflections from other learners and responses build upon and integrate multiple views from other learners to take the discussion deeper. (5pts)
Total Points (possible = 20pts)
Final Assessment: Stem Cell Therapy Poster
Students will create a poster about ONE way stem cells can be used to treat human diseases. The poster will be displayed at WDHS so that others can read the information. Posters must grab the audience’s eye (colorful, graphics, neat) and have factual, accurate information. References must be included on the bottom of the poster- to give credit.
