Question

lesson goals
i can describe how biotechnology may affect living systems.
i can explain how the engineering design process can be used to evaluate a problem and design a solution
lesson activities
connect to prior knowledge
exploration activity
reading and questions
videos (optional)
case study: plastic - eating bacteria
review questions
lesson vocabulary
the meaning of the words in bold found throughout the lesson can be found in the glossary at the end of the module. make sure you read the definitions and refer back to the vocabulary words as you complete the lesson.
engage
connect to prior knowledge
biotechnology is the use of biology to develop new products, methods and organisms intended to improve human health and society. early examples of biotechnology include breeding animals and crops, and using microorganisms to make cheese, yogurt, and beer. biotechnology plays a huge role in our everyday lives - from the clothes we wear to how we wash them, the food we eat to how we source them, the medicine we take to treat our bodies, and even the fuel we use to move our vehicles.
in addition to breeding animals or making cheese, what are some other examples you are familiar with of how biotechnology is used in medicine, agriculture, industry, or environmental protection?

Explanation:

In medicine, biotechnology is used for genetic engineering of drugs like insulin production. In agriculture, genetically - modified crops (e.g., Bt cotton resistant to pests) are developed. In industry, enzymes produced through biotechnology are used in laundry detergents for better stain removal. In environmental protection, bioremediation uses bacteria to break down pollutants like oil spills.

Answer:

In medicine: Genetic engineering for drug production (e.g., insulin). In agriculture: Genetically - modified crops (e.g., Bt cotton). In industry: Use of biotech - produced enzymes in detergents. In environmental protection: Bioremediation with bacteria for pollutant breakdown.